Timothy James Rhode, 67, of Huron, Ohio, passed away peacefully on July 22, 2025, surrounded by loved ones.
Born on June 21, 1958, Tim was raised by the lake in Huron, where he enjoyed a beachside childhood full of sunshine, sand, and adventure with friends he remained close with his whole life. His love of the outdoors and active lifestyle continued throughout his life - from boating and water skiing, snowmobiling, to hiking, zip-lining, and go-karting.
He was a proud member of the Phi Kappa Psi fraternity, Ashland University, and never lost the sense of fun always had with his Brothers.
He also was a 30-year associate of Home Depot and GM for their HD Supply distribution center, Columbus, OH. He was well-respected, having a lasting impact on his local team members and within the network of this fine organization.
Tim was a devoted husband to Eva Rhode, a proud and loving father to Lee Klepek (Tyler) and Nicholas Rhode, and an adoring grandpa to Brooke, Graham, Sadie, and Quinn.
He is also survived by his sisters Jean Cole and Tracey Roy (Cary); mother-in-law Marjorie Parks; brother-in-law Ash Cassidy (Jackie) and many nieces and nephews who were blessed by his steady presence, humor, and warmth.
Tim was preceded in death by his mother Lila Rhode, father Jim Rhode, and his stepmother Judy Rhode.
For 12 years, Tim faced the challenges of multiple sclerosis with quiet strength, courage, and resilience. Even as MS changed aspects of his life, it never defined him. He continued to enjoy traveling with Eva, hanging out at Lake Erie eating perch sandwiches, watching NASCAR and his favorite action movies, and helping friends and family with repairs, even if just to talk them through doing the work themselves. He was always ready to offer a word of encouragement to anyone who needed one. In Tim’s final year, he depended more on his family and friends, his own “PMA”-strong positive mental attitude, and his lifelong good humor as he battled lung cancer, getting to ring the bell after chemo on April 2. As one friend stated after his passing, “He was a good man”.
Calling hours will be held on Friday, August 1, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Newcomer Funeral Home, 10051 Brewster Lane, Powell, OH 43065.
A memorial service and lunch will be held on Saturday, August 2, at 11:00 AM at Liberty Barn Church, 7080 Olentangy River Road Delaware, OH 43015.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society or American Lung Association, in Tim’s honor (or your favorite local charitable organization), as a testament to his enduring strength and spirit.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Please consider a donation as requested by the family.

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