Gurrie Clark Rhoads
In loving memory of our dad, Gurrie Clark Rhoads, who passed away July 25, 2022. Devoted husband to Alice Bican Rhoads and loving father of Cyndi, Geoff, Laura and Bryan Rhoads. Beloved step-father to Robert, Lisa, Lori and Tom Welsch. A loving brother to Virginia, Kathleen, Paul, Mark and Cheryl Rhoads; role model to 17 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild.
A lifelong Western Springs resident, Gurrie graduated from Grand Ave. School, McClure Jr High and Lyons Township High School as his father Herbert Graves Rhoads had 25 years earlier. Twenty-five years later, Gurrie’s 4 children also attended all 3 schools. His LT GPA earned him a full academic scholarship to Cornell University, graduating with a BS in Economics.
Always an eager learner, he devoted his lunch time to the study of words and proudly earned First Place for McClure in the Cook County Spelling Bee 2 years in a row. Honored as a Quiz Kid on national radio. At LT, he was a member of Student Council, a Cross Country competitor and Sports Editor of the Lion…evidence of his unrelenting devotion to Chicago sports teams.
Long-time entrepreneur, real estate developer and business partner, writer and free-market thinker, he founded Rhoads Development Co., conducting numerous real estate partnerships in the western suburbs, especially Bolingbrook and Romeoville and finally developed the Commonwealth neighborhood in Western Springs.
A devoted family man, he worked tirelessly his entire life to ensure their security. He faced every challenge in life with sound judgment, strength and courage.
The wake will be held Friday July 29th at Hallowell & James Funeral Home, 1025 W. 55th St., Countryside from 4pm to 8pm. A funeral service will be held at St John of the Cross Church, 5005 Wolf Rd., Western Springs on Saturday July 30th at 11am. Please meet directly at church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Alzheimer’s Research.
Dad, you are now at peace but you will live on forever in our hearts. We love you so much. Rest in peace.
Funeral info: 708-352-6500
Great poker player, we had many good times together at one house or another, on Friday nights playing a gentleman’s game of poker. I still miss those days and I will miss Gurrie. We’ll all get together for another game one of these days.
Paul and Mark–I recall engaging conversations with Gurrie (and both of you) in the 70s-80s on politics and business. Gurrie was a lively and free thinker. He will be missed. My condolences and regards to you and your family.
May you “Rest In Peace”
Cuz.
To all the Rhoads family,
Deepest Sympathies to you from the Burns family. Gurrie was a friend, a true intellect.
Remember the good times.
Liz Burns
Although I only met Gurrie through the Illegitimate theater group of Western Springs five years ago I admired your dad for his faithfulness and friendliness. He directed one of the best performances of this group when he recruited anyone in the group to perform a favorite scene. That was a wonderful evening. Your Dad and mom performed a reading of the song “Yes I remember it well” No one could have done it better They we’re so sweet together I miss them