Evan J Rhoda Sr.

Evan J. Rhoda Sr., loving husband of Roberta (Bobbi) Rhoda, predeceased by his parents Carl J. Rhoda, Sr. and Elsie M. Rhoda, sister Delysia Freedain and brother Bryan Rhoda, survived by his children Evan J. Rhoda, Jr., Mark D. Rhoda (Sherri), Laurel Giroux (Dan), and Bobbi's children Linda J. Himes (Ken), James L. Larson, Jr., John R. Larson, Carol Ann Wrobel (Tim), and Mary Jo Meyer. Beloved grandfather and great-grandfather to many, and official cuddler for Miller and Molly.
Evan was born at his farm home in Chesterton, Indiana. He was especially proud of his service in the US Army where he served in Germany. Evan worked for the CTA for 36 ½ years where he advanced from bus driver to the position of supervisor – filled with many stories and colorful memories.
Evan always loved motor sports and once enjoyed driving a race car at a local track – an unforgettable birthday gift from Bobbi and attended by many friends and family. He was fiercely loyal to family and friends – never missing an opportunity to help those around him.
Together with Bobbi by his side, Evan traveled to many fun places by car, plane, and boat. One notable accolade during one of their adventures includes "Sexiest Legs Contest" winner on a Caribbean cruise, beating out a much younger field of contestants to include a bodybuilder to everyone's delight.
Evan absolutely loved family gatherings – and ALL the coffee that came with them. He enjoyed collecting coins and over the years, squirreled away more than his body weight in bicentennial quarters. While his favorite meal was breakfast which he cooked or enjoyed at a local greasy spoon – he always preferred a home-cooked meal around the table with his favorite chef, Bobbi.
Though he struggled with Dementia, Evan could still sing "God Bless America", along with other patriotic songs much to our surprise. Through the ups and mostly downs of the disease, Evan ALWAYS managed a beaming smile with a twinkle in his bright blue eyes for everyone – even the dogs.
We will miss Evan's smile, his kindness, booming laugh, generosity, grit, and determination. Though his time with us is over, we'll carry his spirit with us forever.
A visitation will be held on Tuesday April 29, 2025, from 4pm to 8pm at Adolf & Powell Funeral Home, 7000 S Madison St, Willowbrook, IL 60527. Family and friends will meet on Wednesday April 30, 2025, for a 10am Funeral Mass at St Joseph Parish, 4801 Main St, Downers Grove, IL 60515. Livestream (9) St. Joseph Parish Downers Grove - YouTube
In lieu of any gifts, the family asks to consider making a donation in Evan's name to the Alzheimer's Association.
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