James L. Rhoda, 65, of Valparaiso passed away Friday, August 23, 2024. He was born December 9, 1958 in Valparaiso to Elwood & Mabelle Rhoda, graduated from Valparaiso High School in 1977 and received a Bachelor’s degree from Indiana University. Jim made his career as a sales representative, most recently marketing advertising for “The Wedding Magazine”, and had also spent several years with the Northwest Indiana Times newspaper. He enjoyed creating artwork as a graphic designer and drawing of all sorts. But it was his penchant for social interaction (aka gossip) that seemed to keep him in the know on nearly every topic of local concern. Sports in general and local sports in particular were always a favorite source of entertainment and fodder to begin a conversation.
Survivors include his daughter, Jessica Hawkins of Wanatah, grandchildren; Brysen & Emery, and his brother, Richard Rhoda of Valparaiso. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Following cremation at Angelcrest Crematory a private family celebration of Jim’s life will be held.
GUESTBOOK
My condolences to the family. Jimbo and I shared many laughs and had a lot of fun attending many local festivals/concerts, eating at different local restaurants, and taking many walks/bicycle rides together (2012-2021). May he rest in peace. - Tracey West
Sorry to hear of Jim's passing. I came home to Valpo to see him but learned via Goggle he had passed. We spent many years of our youth together from Gardner Elementary to Ben Franklin Junior High. We rode bicycles, camped out in the woods by Factory Street, ran track in elementary always trying to beat one another, explored Grand Trunk Railroad Tracks, and played baseball in the field across from the Old Mica Factory near the water tower. I see the Factory is now a fabulous wedding venue by all the guests on the day we drove by. I see his childhood home is gone along with mine on Factory Street. I moved to Southern Indiana and always wanted to get back and see him and talk about good old days and how our lives turned out. I am glad he had a good one. Michael D. Root, Bloomfield Indiana. -Michael D. Root
