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Jim Pendergast
May 3, 2008
I first met Tom when we part of the HQAFLC/LM organization. He was always positive in his approach to getting the job done regardless of the obstacles in the way. He invariably injected subtle humor into the discussions concerning how the job should be done and we looked forward to hearing his comments. Once retired we continued our association at the base golf course. Tom was the author of the name Prairie Trace now associated with the 18 hole military course. I enjoyed our rounds of golf together for his expertise as a golfer and teacher. I will miss him and his visits to play with our group each spring. Rest in Peace Tom.
Ross and Ann Fortier
April 22, 2008
Tom, we'll all miss you. We'll miss the interesting discussions concerning NASCAR, movies, sports and politics. We'll miss the great golf games and going to football games. We'll miss dinners and cruises. We'll simply miss your great company. God bless you.
Janet & Don Cahill
April 20, 2008
Tom was the most upbeat person we ever met, with a great sense of humor. Don knew him professionally; we both knew him socially -- and enjoyed every minute we spent with him. Tom now has a front row seat at the finish line for all the NASCAR and Indy races. He's also out there making birdies on every hole. He's in a better place, but we will truly miss him.
Dolly Parker
April 19, 2008
My deepest sympathy. I pray that God will give you the strength and peace during this time of sorrow. What I remembered about Tom was him being a kind and gentle man. One who seemed to have a great sense of humor and a lot of patience. I know he will be greatly missed!
Dick & Linda Lopriore
April 19, 2008
Tom was such a special person to spend time with. What a great sense of humor & wit and such a positive attitude. We always enjoyed the passion he showed, whether it was a story he was telling or for his interests in Nascar & golfing & family & friends. He sure enjoyed the gin & tonics we had together. Wish we could have enjoyed many more with both of you. We are all richer for having known Tom.
BARB RHODES
April 18, 2008
PEG, I CANT SAY ENOUGH ABOUT TOM AND HOW MUCH WE LOVED HIM. HE ALWAYS HAD A SMILE AND KIND WORD. HE HAD A GREAT SENCE OF HUMOR. I WILL MISS HIM MORE THAN I CAN SAY. I WANT TO ALWAYS BE YOUR SIS AND FRIEND. TOM WILL BE WATCHING OVER ALL WE DO .I WILL ALWAYS HAVE A HURT IN MY HEART. LOVE YOU.
robert urban
April 18, 2008
may the lord be with you
Steve & Anita Kelley-Powers
April 18, 2008
Peggy, Steve and I are so very sorry. Though we know he is in a better place, it's still hard to let someone as great as Tom "go". Please know we are always thinking of you and I'll be praying for you too. The earth was a better place because of Tom. Know that!
Jim & Jytte Clark
April 18, 2008
We were always glad to see May coming for that meant the Rhodes were going to make their trek north so Tom could go to the Indy 500. That meant there would be good times eating, drinking, golfing and enjoying each others company. Peggy we still expect to see you at least once a year in Ohio. If you do not come up here you might have to put us up in Florida.
I will always remember the last golf outing with Tom. He was hurting (but still beating us) but would not give in to what he called a small discomfort. Tom was a pleasure to be around and we feel very blessed to have been a small part of his life.
Ardis Trigg
April 18, 2008
Peggy
My deepest sympathy for your great loss. Although I never met Tom I know that you loved and cherished him. You are in my prayers and remember that God walks beside us in our time of sorrow.
Love Ardis Trigg
Jackie Watson
April 17, 2008
Peggy: My deepest sympathy to you for your loss. Tom was a genuine and sincere man who will be missed by many. May his memory be a blessing that comforts you always. Much Love, Jackie
Susan Southers
April 17, 2008
I am so sorry for your loss. I always remember Tom as being from the "fountain of youth." It always seemed as though he never aged. I will always remember how he would go to the movies and leave us to talk for hours and not complain at all about it. He was truly one of the nicest people I have ever met and will be missed by many. I will keep all of you in my thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time. Peggy - I will see you in Cable, OH on the 17th of May. Please don't hesitate to call me if you need anything at all.
With my deepest sympathy,
Susan Southers and family
Sandi Simmons and Tom Jonak
April 17, 2008
As I look back over more than 30 years of friendship with Peggy I can’t remember a time before Tom was a part of our lives. He was a wonderful complement to Peggy – both of them loving, generous and such fun. My Tom and I have enjoyed many, but too few, evenings with a glass of wine and our dear friends. We loved to hear the stories, especially about NASCAR trips – camping and cooking with other fans who became friends – so typically Tom. He had a way of making you feel a part of his life and for that we are grateful and humbled. We will miss Tom but will carry a small piece of his spirit with us as will all of the many people he touched.
Lisa & Harry Tatalovich
April 17, 2008
We will truely miss our time and conversations all together but forever keep Tom in our memories and you Peggy in our prayers. We were blessed to spend unforgetable time with both of you at your house. Tom meant a lot to us both and will be remembered. We love you Tom and Peggy.
Don and Dale Badger
April 16, 2008
Dear Peggy,
What a joy and privilege it has been for us to be neighbors and friends with you and Tom. We will miss Tom terribly but his light will shine through you.
Yesterday's service for Tom was magnificent. It was absolutely perfect. All of our sentiments were expressed through Jill when she faced the congregation and said, "Wow". We're sure that Tom was looking down on us and also saying, "Wow", for the amazing tribute you planned in his honor.
David Wright
April 15, 2008
Every summer, Peggy, the girls from her old office, and I would have dinner when she and Tom came to Ohio. Being a gentleman, Tom would always find something to do so Peggy could have some free time with her old friends. When Tom would come to pick her up, he'd spend some time with us. He always seemed sincerely happy to see us, as anyone important to Peggy was also important to him. He was quick-witted, positive, interested in many things, and could always find something in common with everyone he met. I always looked forward to his visits. He will be missed.
Helene DeMarco
April 15, 2008
Dear Peggy,
Be kind to yourself, keep your face to the sunshine and you cannot see the shadow. Make three wishes. Be strong, nuture your soul, continue your prayers. Let go of the pain, take one moment at a time. Hear music, seek inspiration, believe in fairy tales, hug yourself.
Feel the sun shine, smile and remember that Tom is your guardian angel watching over you.
Helene DeMarco, Viera
Ron Roby
April 15, 2008
Peggy, I can't tell you how much I will miss Tom. I believe he may be the most interesting person to be around I ever knew. When I sat next to him in the AFLC/LM staff meetings (circa 1980), he kept me entertained the entire time with his under the breath remarks. In the ten or so years we went to the Michigan NASCAR race together, I looked forward to the ride there and back as much, or more, than the race. We raked everyone we ever knew over the coals during the entire ride. Tom had no equal when it came to quick wit; and he could tell a story with the best of them. One thing I remember in particular is the year we were on a gravel road shortcut to the track when Tom spotted a huge pile of paperback books someone had dumped. We stopped and filled the trunk with them. Tom was so excited to take them all back for you; I don't think he would have been more excited if it had been gold! My greatest regret is that in all the years I knew him, I never got to play golf with him (but I heard a lot of good golf stories). He was a dear friend; and I will miss him terribly. Please contact Sandy and I when you're in Ohio. We both send our deepest sympathy and Love. Ron
Pat and Mike Yarnold
April 15, 2008
Dear Tom and Peggy,
As Tom always said--"I are an officer and a gentleman!" That phrase illustrates Tom's wonderful humor and gentle character. We will miss our little dinners and the discussions of racing. We will keep your family in our thoughts and prayers.
Naomi and Ron Monier
April 15, 2008
Dearest Tom: What can I say? The words just don't come to me. So, I'll say: "God grant me the Serenity to accept the things I cannot change. Courage to change the things, and
Wisdom to know the difference."
I'll always remember the Cincinnati Chili, and your wonderful sense of humor which you had right to the last; we visited with you just a few days ago.
Peggy, we are here for you. Much love, Naomi
Dick and Cheryl Merz
April 15, 2008
We will miss Tom. He was always happy and could fry bacon perfectly for our BLTs! Both of you will remain in our thoughts and prayers.
Bill Glendenning
April 14, 2008
Rita and I have known Tom for many years. I played lots of golf with Tom. Always a smile on his face and a great attitude. Our Blitz golf group always looked forward to having Tom join our group when he was in Dayton and had some extra time. He played several times with our group last year. We will really miss him.
Steve Bateson
April 14, 2008
Tom, what can I say but "thanks"! I'll always remember the good times we had going to auto racing events: the Brickyard, Indy 500 or Shady Bowl speedyway with Gary. You were one of my favorite people to have a disagreement with. We always could agree to disagree but still enjoy each other in the process. Going to the Brickyard will never be the same without you there. Tom, one of the things I'll always remember about you is your famous breakfast the morning of the Brickyard and those famous words spoken to Chuck, Gary and I, "Guys, soups on" ! It was much better than gentlemen start your engines. I'll miss you.
Kelly Eggleston
April 14, 2008
Words cannot express how truly grateful we all were to know and love such a wonderful man. Not only did he live life to it's fullest, but he made sure those around him had a good time too! He was a wonderful Father, Grandfather, Husband, Uncle, Brother and Friend and I will miss him madly. Even though we didn't spend alot of time together he touched my life in a very positive way. Thanks to you Aunt Peggy for sharing him with us, he was a keeper!
Cindy Daley
April 14, 2008
It was a wonderful pleasure living next door to Tom & Peggy. Tom always had great stories to tell and was able recall every last detail and name no matter how long ago..he was a super chef , a kind and humorous friend. We'll miss you Tom.
Take care of little Willie in heaven.
Terri Bateson
April 14, 2008
I, too, will miss all of your wonderful stories & great sense of humor. It won't be the same without Peggy cutting in on your stories or you cutting in on hers. You always made me smile & laugh. I remember my first trip to Fla. to visit Uncle Charles & you picked up Sandi & I at the airport & gave us that great tour of the base. We even went to the movies at Patrick and the grocery store, too. That was quite a special trip for us. I hope you're getting all the "early bird specials" up there at God's table, Tom. I will miss you. See you again someday.
Jim & Paula Tedrow
April 14, 2008
We'll always remember the fun of being around Tom. Especially on our golf days. Tom, you and I will play golf together again---I don't know when --but we will. In the mean time race your nascar around the universe. Peggy. if there is anything we can help you with--please let us know. Love, Jim and Paula
Pat and Gil Stimus
April 14, 2008
Tom was a great friend and he has entertained us many times. Will miss his laughter and the Cincinnati Spaghetti. We'll all get together again one day. Rest in Peace.
April 14, 2008
Kelli Knife
April 14, 2008
Tom was my Father in Law. He was a lot of fun to be around and so good to me. He cooked food esp. for me when we would stay with him and Peg. I loved just sitting around with him and hearing his stories.
Tom, I love you and will really miss you.
Mike Ewers
April 14, 2008
Peggy, My prayers are with you. Have known Tom since his early assignment to AFLC through the retirement job at Prairie Trace. He was so much fun to be around, and enjoy a round of golf and share a few stories.
Les and Sharon Trekell
April 14, 2008
Peggy, when you became my shared secretary some 34 years ago, I always knew that there was someone in this world that was worthy of you, and Tom came along later to fill the bill. He more than did so, and I am so happy that he came into your life. He was a great guy and we will miss seeing him and eating at Giovani's on your annual treks to Buckeyland. (Giovani's and Joe's were recently named the best pizza in the Miami Valley) However, that is no reason for you to not enjoy our hospitality in the future, and we insist upon it. After all, we enjoyed you and Tom so much on our visit to Patrick AFB a few years ago that we almost moved to Valerie ourselves. We will always be there for you---just call.
Jack Daley
April 14, 2008
Tom Rhodes - I only knew him for about 5 years (and of course his great wife, Peggy), but I felt like I knew him for a lifetime. Maybe it's because he told me so many stories about his lifetime, and graciously allowed me to share so many of my own with him.
I have seldom if ever met another person so open minded, so easily accepting of others and tolerant of their ideas even if they didn't coincide with what may have been his own.
That was the beauty of Tom Rhodes. I wish I could have, or would have been more like him in my life. His quirky sense of humor will certainly be sorely missed in what I have remaining of my life.
I miss my buddy Tom. I hope you are resting in peace my friend, and I'll always remember what you told me, which is,"Life is like a rose".
Joe Knife
April 14, 2008
A person could not have asked for a more loving and caring step-father. I will always remember Tom not only going to my baseball and basketball games when I was growing up, but filming them as well. Even more though, I will remember and appreciate how good he was to my Mom. Tom was a great cook and he could watch endless hours of recorded tapes of racing and golf, but would always jump up after pressing the pause button and help my Mom out with whatever she needed. Thanks for everything, Tom. I love you and will miss you very much.
Jim Richardson
April 14, 2008
Peg, I'm sorry that I won't be there to say goodbye to my dear friend. Our friendship started in 1952 in Anderson, IN and has lasted thru these many years, so many great memories. Tom had told me how lucky he was to have had a second chance in life with a partner like you. Thanks for all you did to make his life worth living and to give him the care and love he needed at the end. Tom, tell Egg that I will see you both on the other side,(shoot some hoops and whack some dimples) and don't forget, don't wake Grandma and don't eat all the cheese. All our love always. Pam and Jim
George & Mary Broderick
April 14, 2008
Tom, you will be missed and remembered as a good friend -- always a smile,a friendly remark, a great golfer and all around good guy. Mary and I offer our sincere condolences to all your family. Rest in peace. Save a place in your foursome for me.
Don Jones
April 14, 2008
Tom Rhodes was a friend of mine.
I had the pleasure of knowing Tom for the past 20 years. He always had a story or a topic of interest to keep the conversation lively, humorous and enjoyable. He had the innate ability to talk with people of all backgrounds and make them feel at ease and understood.
Whether it was a formal setting or a backyard picnic Tom was at home and could quickly make you feel at home as well. Tom had many friends from his days as a senior military officer as well as his days at the local golf course.
Tom never let on that he was a high level military man. He was more interested in hearing about you. That was one of his most admirable attributes. We could surely use many more men in this world like Tom Rhodes.
It is obvious that Tom had many friends in this world. How could he not? I am proud to say that he was a friend of mine!
Tom Rhodes is going to be sorely missed by one! And by all.
Troy and Tonya Thomas
April 14, 2008
Uncle Tom was a spirit filled with joy and laughter. He didn't know a stranger and always had a kind word or joke to share. He will be missed by all.
Ruth Case
April 14, 2008
I stayed one winter with Tom and Peggy in a fifth-wheeler on the Banana River. It was possibly one of the best times of my life and I'll always remember his kindness and his sense of humor. He made my daughter very happy. He was a really great, loving Son-in-law. I will truly miss him.
Chris and Bob Stolzenfeld
April 13, 2008
I will always remember all the good times and talks we shared at Indy. I enjoyed your company immensely Tom. Wether it be politics sports or when we were going to eat BLT's we will miss you greatly and the races somehow won't ever be the same without you. Until we meet again at the big race in the sky God Bless Tom.
Ruth Ann Thomas
April 13, 2008
Hi Tom,
I want to thank you for being such a wonderful husband to my sister. She was fortunate to have you for a husband. I will always remember your boyish smile and the stories you loved to tell. Many of which you were never able to finish because Peggy would jump in with her own version of the story before you got to the end.
May God comfort Peggy in the months to come. Tom, I will miss you. Until we meet again,
Love, Sis
AILEEN HODGES
April 13, 2008
PATRICK AFB GAVE US AN EXTENDED FAMILY AND TOM AND PEGGY WERE A BIG PART OF THAT FAMILY. WE LOVE YOU BOTH AND WILL MISS YOU TOM AND HOPE TO MEET YOU AT THAT BIG GOLF COURSE IN THE SKY WITH JESUS KEEPING SCORE. PEGGY WHEN YOU COME TO OHIO, PLEASE COME SEE US AND STAY IN TOUCH. WE SEND OUR LOVE AND PRAYERS. LLOYD AND AILEEN
gladys castle
April 13, 2008
St. John 14; 1-3
Let not your heart be troubled; Ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Fathers House are many mansions, if it were not so I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. and if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again in that where I am you may be also.
Tom was a good, kind man and I am so glad that he had prepared his heart to meet his savior.
I remember a few years ago how he was so good to me and struggled so hard to hang my Christmas tree lights. He was a special guy and I believe he will be there to meet me when I walk through Heavens gate. We are going to miss him this summer. He was a great guy.
He is not suffering any more, but is at rest with The Father.
Peggy's Aunt, Gladys Castle
Don & Marie Fuehner
April 13, 2008
On Alpine Dr. in Hidden Valley Lake the spring comes in with green grass, flowering trees, and shrubs but for us spring began when we saw Tom & Peggy pulling in thier driveway. We spent many spring and summer evenings sitting on the deck enjoying Tom's stories and gentle humor. We cherish the friendship and we will miss you Tom.
The guest room will forever be the Rhodes Suite.
Bob & Angela Johnston & Family
April 13, 2008
Uncle Tom,
Always known for your great wisdom, wit & sense of humor. Whether you were telling a story or a joke over lunch or dinner we always enjoyed spending that valuable time with you & Aunt Peggy.
Your knowledge of American History was absolutely unbelievable. How could one person store so much information in such a delicate human mind? What a fan of golf & racing you were. Tom, we must say to you for the next Indy 500 & the Brickyard. This ones for you! "Gentleman, start your engine!" The hospitality of Tom & Peggy will never be forgotten as we visited in Indiana & Florida, with always such great concern for us & our children. What great moments we've shared together. Tom you will be sadly missed by all of us on this great land with the lives that you have touched, but please save us all a spot in the Heaven above next to you.
Martha & Joe White
April 13, 2008
Joe and I will miss your annual visits in the summer at Wright Patterson AFB (golf course). Your smile was contagious. I called you my cuz as my maiden name was Rhoads(just spelled differently).
Martha & Joe White
Judy Callahan
April 13, 2008
May your memories last a life time and help you through this difficult period. Our lives have crossed paths more than once but I have to say this is the saddest time of my life. Remember Tom is in a better place, walking that golf course or watching the races, and that he and Joseph are having a grand ol' time. One day at a time. Love, Judy
Peggy McCann
April 13, 2008
Peggy, I wish I could be with you but am there in my thoughts and prayers. Hope to see you again on Mondays! Sincerely, Peggy2
david cathy first
April 13, 2008
cousin tom, he had a way of touching people.a positive ,respectful person,a joy to be around.years ago when my mother was about to pass away. i was walking around kettering in the early hours,in the streets.tom pulled up next to me in a car,what he said to me ,i will never forget.i never thanked him for that. once a cousin in this weaver family, always a cousin.we will miss you.see you at first light...
David Gamble
April 13, 2008
Tom and I grew up next door to each other in Anderson and, although he was 13 years older than me, I remember him and his brothers as really great guys. One image that sticks in my mind is Tom giving me a ride in his new convertible when I was just a kid. Rest in peace, Tom.
Mike and Dee Swonger
April 13, 2008
We met Tom and Peggy camping. We have been really blessed by knowing them. Our camp fires will not be the same. It was a pleasure and an honor to have known you Tom. Will see you later.
Jeff Heck
April 13, 2008
Uncle Tom was a great uncle and friend. We shared many interests such as the Air Force, sports, and traveling. I hope the lord has a shade tree in heaven for Tom to camp under at the races. I know my Mom and Dad are really going to miss Tom as will all of us because he made us laugh. He had a good sense of humor. God speed to you Tom. Love, Jeff
Edward and Janice Buddington
April 13, 2008
We knew Tom only a short time but enjoyed his quick wit and great stories of life in the NASCAR "fast lane". Our thoughts and prayers go out to Peggy, his wonderful wife, and the rest of his family. Tom is at peace.
TERRY WHITNELL
April 13, 2008
HEY BUD,
WE MISS YOU KEEPING US STRAIGHT ABOUT THE STATISTICS OF GOLF(AS WELL AS OTHER VARIOUS THINGS). KEEP ROOM FOR US IN YOUR NEW GROUP.
Jeff Heck
April 13, 2008
Tom was my a great uncle, and friend. We shared many interests, such as the Air Force, sports, and traveling. I know it will be hard for my Dad and Mom to not have him around in Florida and Ohio because he made us all laugh. I hope the lord has a nice tree for him to camp under at the races in heaven. God speed to you Tom, we will all miss you. Love, Jeff
Dave & Patty Martin
April 13, 2008
We found that Tom's presence is with us now. He was always full of so much fun and mischief, and it is wonderful to have his voice and face with us reminding us to lighten up. He had wonderful perspective and we are privileged to have shared some time with him as our next door neighbor and friend. Isn't it satisfying to think of him joking and laughing, putting everyone else at ease? Of course, the time was too short but that in itself is a reminder for all of us to cherish every moment like he did.
Keith Castle
April 13, 2008
Cousin Tom: What a pleasure to be around. Such a great wit!! He took me golfing at Patrick AFB, They would always Salute when we drove in. Today I Salute You My Friend!!
Michael Doran
April 13, 2008
Hey Shooter,
I'm going to miss you. I'll see you on the other side. We'll do mexican for lunch and I'm sure you'll have some new stories to tell me.
shawn swonger
April 13, 2008
Tom was a great person to talk to and camp with. He and Peggy were and she will still be part of my family.
Jerry Rosengarten
April 12, 2008
I will miss Tom very much. I will remember his quick wit and ready smile. He was a joy to talk to about any topic. Rest in peace, pal.
Emily Knife
April 12, 2008
I was very lucky to have "Pop" as a step grandfather. He was a very inspirational person and always had a great sense of humor, and he will truly be missed.
Joyce Case
April 11, 2008
Thomas was my friend, Brother-in-law, trivia partner and mentor. He truly was a joy to be around. We always enjoyed the good old hospitality of Peg and Tom when visiting Florida. We were always made to feel special.
We part to meet in Heaven..I will miss you.
Joyce Case
April 11, 2008
Thomas was my friend, Brother-in-law, trivia partner and mentor. He knew so much about everything and was truly a joy to be around.
Our trips to Florida were always made special with the good old hospitality of Peg and Tom.
We part to met in Heaven..I will miss you.
Fred & Bea Holder
April 11, 2008
We have memories of Tom when he and Peg visited Dusty & Barbara and went to the Elks for the evening We enjoyed his company and will miss him very much.
Fred and Bea Holder
Linda and Chuck Heck
April 10, 2008
Tom, our brother-in-law will truly be missed. He had such a great since of humor and he always gave us a good"belly laugh" with his wit and funny stories. Chuck will miss him not being here to go to the brickyard as they had done for the past 6 years. Anyone who knew Tom was fortunate to have a good friend to spend quality time with as he was such a good and happy guy.
See you at the light!!
Chuck and Linda
Tifani Reed
April 10, 2008
Tom was a wonderful Uncle who always had such good stories. He had a great sense of humor. I will miss you terribly.
Darrell Buffenbarger
April 10, 2008
Everything always seemd better when you were around Tom. Sincerely friendly with a great sense of humor, he will be missed by all who knew him.
Janet Jones
April 10, 2008
Tom was my brother-in-law and will truly be missed. His humor was infectious and we will miss all his funny stories. When you were around Tom, you knew you were going to have a great day ahead of you. Until we meet again, Tom -
Janet & Don Jones
Tom & Peg 5-07
gary case
April 10, 2008
Tom was a true friend who will be sadly missed. We surely need more people like Tom in this world.
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