John Rhode

1939 - 2025

John Rhode
09/03/1939 - 06/30/2025
John Grant Rhode, 85, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 30, 2025 surrounded by loved ones in his home in Berkeley, California.
John was born on September 3, 1939 in Minneapolis, Minnesota to Estella Hanson Rhode and Grant McKinley Rhode. He grew up in Minneapolis and graduated two years early from Edison High School. After graduation, he joined the Marines and was stationed in Monterey, California. He completed his bachelor's at the University of Minnesota. He then worked as a CPA for Price Waterhouse. John returned to U of M to complete his master's and doctorate in economics. He began his teaching career at the University of Washington in Seattle. In 1975, he moved with his family to teach finance, economics and accounting at the University of California, Berkeley's business school. John loved to golf, but not in the rain, so the California weather was a big factor in his decision to leave Seattle. Later, he also was a professor at University of San Francisco and UC Davis.
In addition to teaching, John was an avid fly and deep-sea fisherman. He enjoyed billiards, sailing, squash and was a high school wrestling champion. He was a spirited supporter of his favorite teams: the Vikings, the 49ers, the Golden Gophers and the Cal Bears. John was a proud Cal parent, Grid Club member and Men's Golf Committee member. He was curious and charismatic, interested in books of many genres, classical music, politics, art and travel. He brought people from all walks of life into his orbit and on his adventures.
John was an exceptional storyteller (not above embellishment to make his tales more exciting), frequently sharing the accomplishments of his family and of course, himself. Over the span of his life he made five holes-in-one, the best being on the Postage Stamp at Royal Troon in Scotland. He was a multiple champion of the Berkeley City Club golf tournament. John was the Head Coach of the Men's Golf Team at USF and led them to win several WCC titles. In the late 80s, he was hired by Bill Walsh to teach financial planning to the San Francisco 49ers players during their dynasty, a role he relished.
His greatest success, however, was the love he shared with his family. He will be missed dearly and remembered for his hilarity, his enthusiasm, his wit and his giant heart. He is survived by his wife, Ann Bishop Rhode and their children: Jennifer Rhode and Jeffrey Rhode, Jeff's wife, Daphne Rhode, four grandchildren: Theo Chasnow, Lucy Chasnow, Miles Rhode and Oliver Rhode and his darling dog, Rosie.
A private celebration of his life is being planned by his family.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to KQED at donate.kqed.org, an organization that John admired.