Charles J. Rhoades

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.