Richard Wood Rhodes

March 31, 1928 - July 23, 2021 Richard Wood Rhodes3/31/1928 – 7/23/2021Born to Judge Orlando and Alice Rhodes passed peacefully in the company of loved onesRichard was an only child raised by loving and caring parents, he attended Santa Monica High School. Upon graduation he attended Stanford University until he was drafted into the military for the Korean War. After serving he completed his education at the University of Arizona.Richard lived a full life pursuing a variety of careers ranging from real estate investing to owning and operating a ship repair company in Los Angeles Harbor. As a lifelong resident of Southern California he enjoyed all that the Golden State has to offer. He enjoyed surfing at San Onofre, sailing the Channel Islands and playing beach volleyball in his youth.Richard loved to fly and became an experienced and accomplished pilot adventuring throughout the West in his trusty Cessna 172. Flying became his passion and joy and he could often be found in his hangar at Van Nuys Airport or Santa Monica Airport having lunch with fellow pilots and airplane enthusiasts. He was good with tools and enjoyed building furniture and other projects in his free time.As a long time member of the Los Angeles Country Club he became an above average golfer who enjoyed the athletic and social aspects of the game. Popular amongst his peers, he garnered respect around the card table often buying dinner for the defeated with his winnings. To round out his set of life skills Richard became quite adept in the kitchen where he enthusiastically indulged his taste for great food and wine. Known for never showing up empty handed, he often brought delicious treats of caviar, fine wine and desserts to share with his dinner guests or hosts. Above all else Richard was a true gentleman who always had a positive word for any situation that life served up. He did a better job than most at truly listening and conversing with his friends and acquaintances. His kind demeanor and soft easy manners made everyone around him feel comfortable and his sweet nature was apparent to everyone who knew him. He was proud of his California heritage and the family he created. He is survived by his four children: Bryce Rhodes (Orcas, WA), Terry Rhodes (Virginia), Adam Rhodes (Santa Barbara, CA.), and Emery Rhodes, (Seattle, WA,), ten grandchildren and four great grandchildren. Richard is remembered and missed by all those that had the pleasure of knowing him. Go gently and rest in peace.