Ronald “Ron” Robert Rhodes I, 77, of Tinley Park, Ill. (formerly of Princeton), teed off on his final journey on May 15, 2023, in Tinley Park. With club in hand, he swung his way through life, leaving behind a legacy cherished by his family and friends.
From swinging golf clubs to revving car engines, Ron knew how to have a wheel-y good time. He loved sharing his tall tales, passionately cheering for his beloved Iowa Hawkeyes, even naming his cat “Herky” after the mascot, and soaking up the sun on Hawaiian vacations. Ron’s family held a special place in his heart, and he treasured every moment spent with his children.
In the professional arena, Ron had quite the range of experience. He navigated the mean fairways as a member of the Princeton Police Department, kept the aisles secure as the head of security at JC Penney, and even flexed his muscles as a bodyguard. He was part of the Scott County Sheriff’s Posse and a great salesman. Ron truly had all the angles covered!
Survived by his daughter, Trudy (Scott Baske) Rhodes, and sons Robert (Becky) Rhodes, Ronald (Mandi) Rhodes, and Nicholas (Melissa) Rhodes, Ron was the proud patriarch of a lively crew. Grandchildren Shawna, Brandon, Briana, Nathaniel, Shelby, Payton, Lysanne, Piper, Nicholas, Hailey, and Lucas smiled brightly in his presence, while great-grandchild Sullivan added even more sparkle to his days. Ron also cherished his bonds with his niece, Tara (Eric) Clarke.
On his final round, Ron reunited with his father, Robert Mac Rhodes, mother, Gertrude Lillian (Hale) Rhodes, sister, Dy Ann Jordan, two nieces, and one great niece in the great clubhouse in the sky.
A fitting memorial service to celebrate Ron’s playful spirit will take place on Aug. 12, at the Presbyterian Church in Princeton. Visitation will be 1 p.m. until time of service at 2 p.m. Burial will be at Oak Ridge Cemetery following services. A celebratory dinner will be held afterwards at Boll’s Community Center. Let’s remember him with smiles, laughter, and fond memories! In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the charity of one’s choice.
Ron will forever be remembered as a one-of-a-kind character who approached life with a dash of mischief and a twinkle in his eye. Heaven gained a lively golfer, a charismatic storyteller, and a true fan of life itself. May he rest in eternal fun fairways.
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