Jon A. Rhoades

Jon A. Rhoades, 80, of Van Wert, passed away at 6:46 p.m. Tuesday, January 16, 2018, at Van Wert County Hospital in Van Wert.

He was born November 19, 1937, in St. Marys, the son of Thaddeus and Lillian (Todt) Rhoades, who both preceded him in death. On September 5, 1959, he married Nancy (Schultz) Rhoades and she survives in Van Wert.

He is also survived by his two sons, Craig (Katherine) Rhoades of Dublin and Chris (Jill Gross) Rhoades of Hilliard; six grandchildren, John Isaac Rhoades, Katherine Alexandra Rhoades, Ian Rhoades, Christian Rhoades, Quintin Rhoades and Gavin Rhoades; and a sister-in-law, Patricia Rhoades of Fullerton, California.

Jon retired as vice president of underwriting after 43 years of service with Central Insurance Companies. He was a member of First United Methodist Church in Van Wert, where he currently chaired the Finance Committee and had also chaired the committee responsible for the church’s most recent renovation. Jon was the current president of the Van Wert Community Improvement Corporation, current member and past president of the Van Wert Rotary Club, past president of the Van Wert YMCA Board of Directors, past president of the Van Wert County Hospital Board of Directors, past president of the Starr Commonwealth Board of Directors, and past president of the former Van Wert Jaycees.

Jon was a graduate of Waynesfield-Goshen High School and was also a graduate of Miami University with a degree in economics. While at Miami University, Jon was a member of Delta Upsilon fraternity and was a member of the football team, having been recruited by legendary football coach Ara Parseghian. He was a recipient of the Ray Miller Outstanding Community Service Award from the Van Wert Area Chamber of Commerce and had previously coached Van Wert youth baseball and basketball.

Most importantly, Jon treasured time spent with his family, including their annual vacation to Hilton Head, South Carolina, for the last 25 years.

He was also preceded in death by a brother, William Rhoades.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, January 20, at First United Methodist Church in Van Wert, with the Rev. Gus Christo-Baker officiating. A private family burial will take place at Woodland Cemetery in Van Wert.

Visitation will be from 4-8 p.m. Friday, January 19, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory in Van Wert, and an hour prior to services Saturday at the church.

Preferred memorials: First United Methodist Church or a charity of the donor’s choice.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.alspachgearhart.com.