Charlie Edward Rhoads, 89, passed away Sept. 21, 2008 at Harborview Medical Center in Seattle. His wife Pat and son Kelly were at his side. He was born Nov. 24, 1918 in Los Angeles to W.R. and Cordelia Rhoads.

Charles went to school in Los Angeles, graduating from Marshall High School and went on to college. In February 1941 he took a break from college and joined the Army. He spent much of WWII in the European theater commanding heavy artillery. He was very proud of the fact that he never lost a man during his command. He left the regular Army in 1946 as a major, but stayed on with the Army Reserve until 1954.

After being discharged in 1946 Charlie went on to receive a bachelor’s degree in Business from UCLA. He was with Prudential Insurance at their Western Home Office in Los Angeles for 33 years, taking early retirement in January 1980.

In July of 1961 Charlie married the love of his life, Patricia Mahoney, in Pasadena, Calif. Their son Kelly was born in 1965. When they moved to Oak Harbor Charlie and Pat were finally able to enjoy having a large and productive garden. When they moved to their current smaller home, his gardening was devoted to his begonias. They also volunteered at the library for many years. During his life, Charlie loved body surfing, skiing, sailing, camping, hiking with his nephews and sky diving.

Charlie is survived by his wife Pat, son Kelly and several nieces and nephews. He dearly loved Pat and Kelly and will be missed so very much.

At his request Charlie will be cremated and there will be no formal services for him at this time. The family is planning a private gathering in the near future. Any wishing to, may make a donation to their favorite charity. Arrangements were entrusted to Burley Funeral Chapel.