Stephen Joseph Rhodes

July 26, 1950 -

Jan 11, 2020

Stephen Joseph Rhodes, known to family and friends as one of the last "good guys," died on Jan. 11, 2020, in Las Vegas, Nev. He is survived and missed by his wife, Ann; his sister and brother-in-law, Teri and Ted Farha of Wichita; his sister and brother-in-law, Julie and Dick Mauk of Omaha; and cousins, nephews and nieces all over the country.

Harold E. (Dusty) and Carol J. Rhodes greeted their son on July 26, 1950. Steve always felt grateful for growing up in Winfield, Kan., where he and his cousin, Alan, could ride bikes all over town.

After graduating from WHS in 1968, Steve attended Cowley County Junior College. He and his lifelong friend, Glen Bennett, joined the Navy in 1969. He was stationed at Fleet Anti-Submarine Warfare School in San Diego, and honorably discharged in 1973. California became his home after he married Ann Marie Pierce that year. We are so grateful for how she cared for him in his last illness.

Steve continued his education at Mira Costa College, earning an associate's degree in mathematics and electronics. He was employed by NCR Corp., Sears, and was a Project Manager for Quality Image Publishing.

Steve and Ann left California and moved to Alaska in 1998, falling in love with America's last frontier. Camping, fishing and four-wheeling with friends kept them busy, and Steve and Ann were always happy to introduce family and friends to the marvels of the 49th state.

Steve was known for his loyalty, his sense of fun, his compassionate spirit and his love for nature. Many will say they couldn't find a better friend.

A memorial will be held at the Walnut Valley Festival in September of this year, with details to be announced later. Ann says Steve would be honored with a donation to the Animal Foundation of Las Vegas, or any charity of your choice. The best way to remember Steve is by passing kindness forward.