Ronald Eldon Rhodes

Ronald "Ron" Eldon Rhodes, 80, of Owensville, Indiana, passed peacefully into the arms of the Lord on November 25, 2024. Born on a rare Leap Year Day, February 29, 1944, in the panhandle of Oklahoma, Ron was a man who embraced life’s unique opportunities and challenges with determination and heart.

A proud veteran of the United States Army, Ron earned his GED while stationed at Fort Knox, a testament to his dedication to learning and bettering himself. Serving during the Vietnam era, Ron never missed a Memorial Day service and was very proud to be a Gold Star Family for his fallen brother Wayne. In April, he went on the EVV16 Honor Flight where he was welcomed home in celebration.

After being discharged, Ron settled in Evansville and was fortunate to get a job working on the line at Whirlpool. With significant dedication and a stroke of luck, he obtained a tool and die apprenticeship, setting him on a trajectory to work in the tool room. Outside of work, Ron was a master craftsman in his own right, meticulously rebuilding his own Harley-Davidson motorcycle, a project that showcased his extreme patience, love for precision, and his adventurous spirit. Ron had a deep desire to travel and see the country, but his greatest journey brought him back to Evansville, where he chose to be close to his children, Wayne and Lana.

On July 4, 1980, Ron married Pamela Peterson in a celebration as spirited and enduring as their partnership. Two years later, they welcomed their only child together, Deanna. At age 36, Ron was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes, a demanding disease that required constant vigilance. Despite the challenges, Ron faced his diagnosis with determination, leaning on Pamela’s steady presence as they worked together to manage the ups and downs of his condition.

For Ron, his work was more than a livelihood—it was his passion, a source of endless creativity, and a testament to his remarkable mind. Ron’s talent and ingenuity as a tool and die maker led him to establish Rhodes Tool and Machine, which he owned and operated for over 40 years. Ron was innovative and resourceful. One of his ongoing projects was the invention of an underwater pelletizer which he believed could transform the plastics industry.

A true renaissance man with humble roots, Ron found joy in the simple pleasures of life such as tending to his garden, where his jalapeños thrived, planting dozens of trees on his property, and cherishing the companionship of animals. His loyal walking buddy, Annie, held a special place in his heart, even after her crossing of the Rainbow Bridge. His current dog, Rosa, accompanied him in his recliner and brought him much comfort.

In the past two decades, Ron embraced his faith more deeply, becoming an active member of Owensville United Methodist Church. His spiritual journey reached a profound milestone when he participated in the Walk to Emmaus, just last year. He described the experience as "an avalanche of love." In his later years, Ron found great joy and purpose in serving others and living out his faith.

Ron built a life doing what he loved. His legacy of hard work, resourcefulness, and quiet strength will live on in the hearts of those he touched. Ron found peace listening to his favorite song, Amazing Grace. The lyrics echoed the challenges he faced and the resilience with which he met them and serves as a fitting tribute to a life well-lived.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Eldon and Irene (Cooper) Rhodes, and all of his siblings, Jeanette Sherwood, Wayne Rhodes, Alene Gaither, Leon Rhodes, and Yvonne Rhodes. Ron is survived by his wife, Pamela Rhodes; his children, Wayne Rhodes, Lana (Brian) Harper, and Deanna Rhodes; his grandson, Cameron Harper; and five great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Honor Flight of Southern Indiana at PO Box 8234, Evansville, IN 47716.

A Memorial Service to celebrate Ron’s life will be held on December 15, 2024, at 12 PM at Owensville United Methodist Church, following Sunday’s service. Goodwin-Sievers is honored to be entrusted with the care of Mr. Rhodes.

Condolences may be made to the family online at www.goodwinsieversfh.com.