Robert James Rhodes, affectionately known as “Jim” and “Bob”, formerly of Stevensville, passed away in Batton Rouge, LA on March 23, 2023.
Jim was born May 9, 1957, in St. Joseph, Mi, to Robert J. and Donna Lee (DeMorrow) Rhodes. He graduated from Lakeshore High School. Jim then went to Lake Michigan College, earning his Associate Degree, the University of Michigan earning his Bachelor’s in Marine Biology, and attended Louisiana State University earning his Master’s Degree in Forestry & Fishery. Professionally, Jim began working at Tosi’s while in high school and through his time at LMC. He started as a bus boy and worked his way up to a bartender and managed the bar stock. Following the completion of his education, Jim worked for the Environmental Protection Agency of Louisiana. After being exposed to toxic waste numerous times through his career, Jim became disabled. He enjoyed cycling, running cross country and hang-gliding, even designing and crafting many of his own hang-gliders. Jim was also an avid fly fisherman.
Jim is survived by sister, Karen (Frank E.) Rhodes Oles; stepsister, Sandra (Jerry) Bolhuis; stepbrothers, Jeffery (Susan) Sackett and Mark Culverhouse of Ft. Lauderdale, FL; sister-in-law, Yvonne Sackett (widow of Steve); grandson of Elsa Rhodes of Tosi’s fame; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces & nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his stepbrothers, Bryce (Connie) Culverhouse and Steve Sackett.
A celebration of life for Jim and his mother, Donna Lee Sackett, will be held at 10 am on Saturday, April 20, 2024, at Starks & Menchinger Chapel, 2650 Niles Rd., St. Joseph. Inurnment for Jim will take place at 10 am on Monday, April 22, at Riverview Cemetery, St. Joseph. Memorial contributions may be made to your local Humane Society. Those wishing to send a condolence online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.
Memorial Contributions
Memorial contributions in Jim’s name may be made to
Your local Humane Society
Service
When
April 20th, 2024 10:00am
Where
Starks & Menchinger Chapel
Address
2650 Niles Rd.
St. Joseph , MI 49085
Interment
Where
Riverview Cemetery
Address
2925 Niles Road
St. Joseph , MI 49085