Dan Ervin Rhoads, 74, of New Ross passed away peacefully Sunday, Nov. 1, 2026, at home.
Born Aug. 13, 1952, in Crawfordsville, Dan was the son of James “Donald” and Kathryn (Mercer) Rhoads. A lifelong resident of Montgomery County, Dan was a devoted family man, hardworking farmer, generous community supporter, and proud Purdue Boilermaker. Known for his quick wit, sharp mind, and stubborn, ornery personality, Dan had a heart of gold and left lasting memories with everyone who knew him.
A 1970 graduate of Ladoga High School, Dan earned his bachelor’s degree in agriculture from Purdue University in 1974, where he was a member of Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity. He returned home to continue his family’s farming tradition, establishing “Rhoads Livestock Farm” and dedicating his life to preserving his family’s agricultural legacy.
Dan was a lifelong supporter of FFA and 4-H, generously contributing his time and resources to local youth agricultural programs, particularly the Montgomery County 4-H Livestock Auction. He also served on the South Montgomery School Board from 1994 to 1998.
On Feb.16, 1983, Dan married Karen Wulf, welcoming her children, Neil and Julie, as his own. Together, they expanded their family with the birth of their daughter, Emily, and son, Damon. Dan was a proud father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who loved supporting his family’s activities, coaching youth basketball, and creating memories together.
A devoted Purdue men’s basketball fan and longtime season ticket holder, Dan attended hundreds of games at Mackey Arena. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening, collecting coins, playing cards, and challenging family members with math problems he invented around the dinner table. His competitive spirit, playful teasing, and unmistakable stubbornness were matched only by his generosity and love for those around him.
Above all, Dan treasured family traditions. For nearly 40 years, he and Karen hosted the annual Rhoads family Christmas Eve celebration, complete with calls to Santa on an antique telephone, readings of The Night Before Christmas, crazy-sock contests, and silver dollars for each of the kids. These cherished memories will continue for generations.
Dan was preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Kathryn Rhoads, and his brothers, Tom and Gale Rhoads.
He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Karen Rhoads; his children, Neil Ramie, Julie (Chris) Fenton, Emily Rhoads and Damon (Kesha) Rhoads; his grandchildren, Marin and Marley Rhoads, Ben and Chloe Gurule, Emmy and Anna Fenton, and JaJuan, Isaiah and Mikah Phillips; his great-grandchild, Malaya Phillips; his brothers, Dave (Sheila) Rhoads and Keith (Melinda) Rhoads; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.
Visitation will be held 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 10 at Servies Funeral Home, 203 N. Washington St., Ladoga, with funeral services immediately following. Burial will take place at the New Ross Cemetery.
You are invited to visit www.serviesfuneral.com where you may leave online condolences or share a memory with the family.
