Wayne Ernest Rhoades

Wayne Ernest Rhoades

UNION CITY, California -- Wayne Rhoades of Union City, California, passed away peacefully July 7, 2013, from COPD. He was 87 years old.

He was raised on a farm near Culbertson, Nebraska, with eight siblings. Wayne, often called "Dusty" in his younger years, started his education at a one-room country school house. He put himself through college by Golden Gloves boxing competitions and the G.I. Bill. He served in the Navy during World War II in Borneo and the Philippines. While earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in education from Kearney State Teachers College in Nebraska, he met and married his beautiful wife, Betty. They have been married for 66 years and have two daughters.

He also earned a Master of Arts degree in education from Kearney State and another Master of Arts degree in economics from the University of Illinois. Mr. Rhoades not only excelled as a student but also as a teacher and coach. He began his 38-year teaching career in 1949 at Hayes Center, Nebraska. He then returned to teach at his alma mater in Culbertson and later in Kearney, Nebraska. In 1964, he moved his family to San Leandro, California, to teach at Pacific High School, San Leandro High and Chabot College.

Most of all, Wayne enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and meeting with his long-time friends for coffee. During retirement he took long neighborhood walks where he met many friends. He loved partaking in a good discussion any time. He was an avid sports fan. He played football in college and played tennis until he was 80 years old.

Wayne's great wit, humor and honesty will be sorely missed. He gave us his time and influenced many. He was a devoted husband, caring father, super grandpa and loyal friend. He is unforgettable and irreplaceable to all who knew him. He will remain in the hearts of each of us lucky enough to know and love him.

Wayne is survived by his beloved wife, Betty; two daughters, Jody Gattey and Laurie Speaker; three siblings, Earl Rhoades, Maxine Talley and Barbara Almond. He has eight grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren, plus numerous friends and countless former students. Wayne was preceded in death by his parents, George Ernest and Fairy Etta Rhoades; five siblings, William, Merle, Glen, Emma-Louisa Rhoades and LaVaughn Anderson.

At Mr. Rhoades request, there will be no service.