Donald Leland Rhoads

Donald Leland Rhoads was born May 4, 1951, in Klamath Falls, Oregon, to Jerry Waldo and Bonnie Louise (Hale) Rhoads. He grew up with a brother and two sisters, attended Klamath Union High School, and earned his GED in 1969. Donald joined the Navy, proudly anticipating being of service to his county. Unfortunately, he was given an honorable medical discharge before he was able to complete basic training. When his parents ended their marriage, Donald’s father moved to California, and Donald followed him there, living in California for several years. Often taking work where his dad was employed, he held several different jobs over the years, one of which was at a warehouse where he was a general laborer for a few years. Donald met Joan Marie Bruck and the two fell in love and were married May 26, 1995. The couple had no children together but enjoyed their time together until Joan passed away. Donald had many hobbies and enjoyed learning new things and being involved in his community. He was a licensed Ham Radio operator and made connections with other operators all over the world. Donald also loved Russian music and Sci Fi, collecting all types of media related to his interests. Over the years he went to many concerts and collected memorabilia along the way. Donald and his good friend Larry traveled all over the country to ride roller coasters. An active member of the Stayton Senior Center for nine years, Donald used whatever talents he had to help others and was head of Bingo and computer training amongst other volunteer opportunities. He was passionate about helping his community and attended training and was certified as a CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) member by Marion County and FEMA. During the wildfires of 2020, Donald volunteered at the Marion County Fairgrounds to help evacuees. He was a beloved friend and member of the community, active in his church, and deeply loved by the family he was devoted to. On September 10, 2021, Donald passed away at Santiam Hospital in Stayton. He was preceded in death by his wife Joan and his parents and grandparents. Donald is survived by his fiancé Dorcas Gilley; siblings Michael A. Rhoads, Deborah L. (Edwin) Tompkins, and Rebecca (Curtis) Culp; six nieces and nephews; three great nieces and nephews; and many friends in the community.