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BORN
1932
DIED
2025
FUNERAL HOME
Charles Rhoades Obituary
Charles J. Rhoades, of Orion, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, at his home surrounded by his loving family.
A visitation service will be held from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, at Esterdahl Mortuary & Crematory, 1301 4th Street, Orion, IL, 61273. A graveside service for the family will be held on Saturday, February 15, 2025, in Converse, IN. Memorials may be made in Charles' honor to the family, which will be dispersed amongst his favorite local charities.
Charles was born on April 9, 1932, in Muncie, Indiana, to Charles T. and Alice Louise (Gibson) Rhoades. After graduating high school, he married Greta M. Graf-Ancil on January 31, 1951, in Converse, Indiana. They shared almost 70 years of marriage and many memories together, until her passing on September 12, 2020.
Charles proudly served in the United States Army before embarking on a long and dedicated career as a Mechanical Engineer for the Small Arms Division at the Rock Island Arsenal. He began his service in January 1955 and devoted 32 years to the government before retiring in April 1987.
An avid outdoorsman, Charles found joy in fishing, camping, and traveling. He was also a skilled marksman and a proud member of the National Rifle Association, where he earned recognition as an Expert Marksman. Above all, he cherished time spent with his family.
May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him.
Those left to cherish his memory include his daughters, Peggy Rhoades Dawson of Orion, and Amy Rhoades of Orion; 10 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and 5 great-great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Louise Rhoades; loving wife, Greta Rhoades; daughter, Nancy Rhoades; sons, Michael Rhoades and Steven Rhoades; and daughter-in-law, Peggy Rhoades.
Charles was an amazing man, husband, father, and grandfather. We were truly blessed and grateful every day that the good Lord chose us to be his family. We would like to extend a special thank you to Beacon of Hope Hospice, Galesburg, IL, and Sandi Sonneville for the loving care they gave to Charles over the past few weeks, it was greatly appreciated.
Memories may be shared online by visiting esterdahl.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Charles Rhoades
Sponsored by Esterdahl Mortuary and Crematory, Ltd. - Orion.
3 Entries
Tracy Wyant
February 10, 2025
I worked with Chuck many many years ago when I first started at the Arsenal back in the 80's. He was always a very sweet and caring person. He made a big enough impression on me that I still remember him to this day. My condolences to the family.
Phyllis Summers
February 7, 2025
Jerry was a cousin of my late husband, Jim Summers. JIm often related stories of their times together when they were young. They were happy times and good memories. My condolences to all the family. Most Sincerely, Phyllis Summers
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Esterdahl Mortuary and Crematory, Ltd. - Orion1301 Fourth Street, Orion, IL 61273
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