Jeff Rhoads, formerly of Oskaloosa, passed away unexpectedly from a heart related condition at his home on September 20, 2022. Jeff was born in Oskaloosa on August 15, 1961, to Carl “Bub” and Linda Rhoads in Oskaloosa. He graduated from Oskaloosa High School with the Class of 1979. Jeff and Linda were united in marriage on November 21, 1987, in Oskaloosa. Jeff and Linda enjoyed traveling and had the opportunity to visit many destinations throughout their life together. After raising their family, Jeff and Linda relocated to Las Vegas, NV where they finished out their work careers. Jeff retired in March of 2021. Jeff and Linda enjoyed everything that Las Vegas had to offer, while entertaining their children and grandchildren. Jeff had a love for classic cars and owned many throughout his life. In August of 2022, Jeff and Linda relocated to Ocala, FL.
Jeff is survived by his wife, Linda, of nearly 35 years. Two sons, Nicholas (Brena) of Cedar Falls; Chad Ford of Oskaloosa and a daughter, Erica (Michael) Gershman of Mooresville, NC. Jeff was Papa/Grandpa to 10 grandchildren: Ethen, Izabella, Halzey, Alora, Keaton, Landyn, Mason, Morgan, Brandt and Hudson. Jeff is also survived by his mother, Linda Rhoads; two sisters, Kim (Lee) Fite; Valerie DeRooi, all of Oskaloosa; and a sister-in-law Yvonne (Stu) Menninga, of Keller, TX. He was also the uncle to two nieces and two nephews.
Jeff was preceded in death by his father, Carl “Bub” Rhoads; daughter, Elizabeth Rhoads; brother-in-law, Keith DeRooi, as well as his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Melvin and Clarice Sams.
A Celebration of Life will be held Friday, October 14, 2022, at 10:30 a.m. in the Bates Funeral Chapel in Oskaloosa with Pastor Alvern Boetsma officiating. As was Jeff’s wish his body has been cremated. Visitation will open Wednesday October 12, 2022, after 11 a.m. in the Bates Funeral Chapel and the family will be at the funeral chapel from 5:30 – 7:30 Wednesday evening to greet friends and relatives. Private burial will be at a later date in the Forest Cemetery. Jeff was passionate about supporting addiction recovery. A memorial has been established in his name to support organizations whose mission is to assist those struggling with substance abuse.
