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David Alan Rhodes

1952 - 2016

David Alan Rhodes obituary, 1952-2016, Sacramento, CA

BORN

1952

DIED

2016

David Rhodes Obituary

David Alan Rhodes, born September 20, 1952, passed away September 29, 2016 in Davis, California, his home for the last 44 years. Dave was a remarkable man who lived with dignity, courage, and humility in the face of many challenges. Despite a car accident at the age of 16 that left him paralyzed from the neck down, he did not let his physical limitations define him. Dave earned undergraduate degrees in Economics and Political Science as well as a Law degree from UC Davis. He was immensely proud of his career as a criminal prosecutor in the California Attorney General's office, and volunteered many years for Suicide Prevention of Yolo County. He was an active member in the Episcopal Church of St. Martin for 40 years, and enjoyed his Sunday traditions of church and coffee with friends. Dave was often seen "chairing it" through the streets of Davis, and was known to many for his love of the Raiders and Beatles. Friends, family and colleagues especially loved Dave's keen intellect, incredible wit, and contagious smile. The role in which he took the most pride was that of being a father and grandfather and he made it known to all who knew him how much he cherished his family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Leon and Marion Cotter, and Robert Rhodes. He is survived by his son Ted, daughter Katie, son-in-law Matt, brother Dennis, and two grandchildren, Zachary and Claire. A testament to the power of good will and positivity, Dave led an extraordinary life. A celebration of his life will be held Sunday, October 23 at 2 p.m. at the Church of St. Martin, 640 Hawthorn Lane; Davis, California. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Suicide Prevention of Yolo County.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Sacramento Bee on Oct. 9, 2016.

Memories and Condolences
for David Rhodes

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Harry Wensel

June 18, 2017

David was one of my inspirations. I knew him since the 5th grade. He was a very smart man and a loving father. When he talked about his kids he would light up. We attended Solano College and he was part of the great easter egg heist ... such a fun guy.

Tina Rhodes

December 15, 2016

David was my brother in law (married his brother Dennis in 1977)
Unfortunately because of the East coast, West coast divide our times together were few.
My memories of David begin with his amazing smile and gracious acceptance of his situation. I do believe that on one visit, he and I "danced".
My memories of him will always bring a smile to my face and a warm feeling.
I want Katie and Ted to know that we all know what a wonderful, devoted and special man their father was and that I will always remember him.

Helen Clark

October 23, 2016

"Let no man weep for me, or celebrate my funeral with mourning, for I still live, as I pass to and fro through the mouths of men."
--Quintus Ennius
I love this quote, as it reminds me that whenever we speak about Dave, with our stories and memories, and especially on this day, he is not far.

Leslie Kay

October 11, 2016

What a remarkable person. My condolences to all of his family and friends who were close by. I worked with David many years ago at the Legal Aid program in Sacramento. I lived in Davis and drove to his house, and he taught me how to drive his van that got him to work every day. He was always hilarious. I moved away but it has been fun to keep up a little bit on FB. His memory will run deep.

Katrina Sayles

October 11, 2016

Deepest sympathy and condolences to David's family. I had the pleasure to work with your father at the AG's office. He was a very nice man and always always helpful.

Debi Clouse (Mikawa)

October 11, 2016

Katie and family,
I am so sorry for the loss of your dad. We grew up together in Vacaville, attend high school, church and a lot of other activities. He was an honorary pall bearer at my Mother's funeral in 1970. We had so much fun and laughed so hard at times. I will forever remember his kindness, his whit and his wonderful smile. Thinking of you and your family at this difficult time.

Maureen Daly

October 11, 2016

My deepest sympathy to Dave's family and loved ones. I had the privilege of calling Dave my friend and professional colleague for many years. Dave was a truly remarkable, courageous and kind person. I will always remember that beautiful smile. He will be so missed. I know he is at peace with his God.

Louise Katherine Karoli Gallagher

October 11, 2016

My sincere condolences to the Rhodes family at this difficult time. David's courage and strength is an example to all. His life was filled with accomplishments in his career and the love of his family. His life and memory will be eternal.

Amanda Stewart

October 10, 2016

Katie and family,
I am so incredibly sorry for the loss of your dad. I have only had the pleasure of speaking with him a handful of times, but clearly, he impacted so many people's lives, and I know how much you loved him, Katie. I am especially taken by his support with suicide prevention, as my brother took his own life at the young age of 26, less than two years ago. Peace and love to you all. I hope he is running marathons, or wheel chair racing in heaven, whatever pleases him more! Thinking of you.

Dorothy Reath

October 10, 2016

My thoughts and prayers go out to David's family. I had the privilege of working closely with David at the AG's office in 1996 and 1997 as his Legal Secretary. He was such an incredible man and loved his children so much. I remember hearing his daughter singing in the background while transcribing his tapes. I still have the article featured in the Sacramento Bee about David and his accomplishments. Rest in Peace David!

Lenore Sebastian

October 10, 2016

I am deeply saddened to read today of David's passing. We worked together at the AG's office, and I had the pleasure of his company every day for the 26 years I worked there. What a warm, kind, funny, fiercely intelligent and amazingly positive man! I cherish our conversations about politics, music, theatre, and Life. Tomorrow is the start of Yom Kippur, and as I light candles tomorrow for my departed loved ones, I shall light one for him in my heart. Alev ha-shalom, David.

Heather Gimle

October 10, 2016

Dear Ted, Katie, and family,

I knew your father from work and was very sad to hear he had passed. David was a patient instructor when I was new in the office and very highly regarded by all of his colleagues. His accomplishments and outlook were remarkable. I recall the pride he had, and expressed, for his children. I will miss David and am thinking of you during this difficult time.

Steve Girard

October 10, 2016

I was privileged to work with Dave at the AG's office, he was a die-hard Raiders fan and a heck of a nice guy. He will be missed.

Judi Rice

October 10, 2016

Deepest condolences to David's family. I had the pleasure and honor of working with David found him to be a very intelligent and compassionate man.

Loretta Miller

October 10, 2016

This is really sad for me. I worked with Dave at the Attorney General's office and I really admired him and enjoyed working with him. He made the best of everything and didn't sweat the small stuff. My deepest condolences to his family and friends and it was an honor to know him. Rest in peace Dave.

Joan Irving

October 10, 2016

My sincere condolences to the family. I had the privilege of working with David at the Attorney General's office and I must say he was a very loving and caring man who I respected to the utmost. May he rest in peace and in love!

Debbie Habecker

October 9, 2016

I am so sorry for the loss of David. I worked with him at the Attorney General's Office and I admired him for his accomplishments. We would often chat about the Beatles or what it was like back then. Always enjoyed his company. Thoughts and prayers to the family for their loss.

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Memorial Events
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Oct

23

Celebration of Life

2:00 p.m.

Church of St. Martin

640 Hawthorn Lane, Davis, CA

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