Dennis M. Rhoades, 82, of Monmouth, IL, passed away on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at his home surrounded by his loving family.
He was born on November 18, 1942, in Monmouth, IL, the son of James V. and Mary M. (Peterson) Rhoades. Denny was raised and educated in Monmouth and graduated from Monmouth High School in 1960. While in high school, he lettered as a diver on the MHS Swim Team.
Denny joined the Illinois Army National Guard, Battery B, 123rd Artillery Macomb Unit in 1963. He attained the rank of E-6 and was honorably discharged in November of 1969. He was a crew chief on the Howitzer.
Denny married Vickie Holmberg on September 16, 1967, at the Heritage U.P. Church in Monmouth. They have been married for 57 years; and she survives.
After graduation, Denny apprenticed and received his journeyman license under the tutelage of Irey Brothers Builders. He always said he had the best teachers. He remained with Irey’s until 1974, when he began working for David Warfield at Warfield Lumber Company until 1978. In 1978, he and Dean Anderson formed a partnership as Rhoades-Anderson Builders for 20 years until Dean retired. He then employed Will Miner, until his retirement in 2007. He was well known for his beautiful finish trim work.
Denny loved nothing more than being with his family. From the time his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren were small, he loved playing with them as well as teaching them how to build, repair, and how to always be kind and loving. He loved all sports, especially water sports, boating, water skiing, and watching Summer Olympics water events. After retirement, his favorite pastime was fishing with his best pal, Jerry Hasten. He was a diehard Chicago Bears fan, but watched all sports that were in season. He never missed school activities and sports events that his family was participating in. He was a proud father, grandfather, and great grandfather.
Denny was a member of the First Christian Church, where he was a trustee for many years. He was on the planning and building committee for the new church building erected on North Sunnylane. He was also on the Zoning Board of Appeals for the City of Monmouth for many years.
Surviving Denny is his wife, Vickie Rhoades of Monmouth, IL; two children, Brian J. (Lisa) Rhoades, Jodi K. (Jeff) Johnson; Seven grandchildren, Corbin (Kelsey) Shepherd, Tucker (Kathryn) Shepherd, Jacob (Kaya Kelly) Rhoades, Ben (Alyssa Phoenix) Riggen, Cara Riggen, Ryan (Allison) Johnson, Natalie (Ethan Ferguson) Johnson; three great grandchildren, Sawyer Shepherd, Cooper Shepherd, and Sylvie Grace Shepherd. Also surviving are very special nieces and nephews, and many dear lifelong friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and one sister, Leanne Carson.
The family wishes to express their heartfelt thank you to OSF Hospice nurse, Josh Bridgman, and his wonderful caregiver, Char Winnett, and Dr. Jeffrey Hershkowitz for their compassionate care. We can’t express how grateful we are, but you will be in our hearts forever.
Cremation rites have been accorded. No visitation or services are planned at this time. Memorials can be made to the Jamieson Center Backpack Weekend Food for Children Fund. McGuire & Davies Funeral Home and Crematory, Monmouth, IL, is in charge of the arrangements.
