David W. "Dave" Rhoades #136

David W. “Dave” Rhoades, resident of Gallatin, TN, passed away with his family by his side, on July 23, 2024 at age 54. David graduated Ada High School and went on to attend Hocking College Fire and Emergency Services Programs and Dave later went on to serve his community for the next 23 years. David spent 15 years serving as a firefighter and EMS with Springfield Township. He also served as firefighter and EMS for Cedar Point, Ada, Hocking Hills, Bristol, TN and Providence Twp. David enjoyed serving his community and always remained humble. After moving to Tennessee, David worked for Wild Horse Saloon, and then for Beretta until January of this year as a technical machine operator. He loved his job. He treasured his time with his family, and his dog Buckeye. As an outdoorsman, Dave spent time with his friends and family fishing and hunting. He was a member of Fire and Iron Motorcycle Club for six years, where he was known as “Gunner”.

After Dave’s cancer diagnosis a few years ago, he made it a point to spend time with his family and cherish the relationships he held close. He always remained positive, and fought like hell. Until the end, Dave’s family remained by his side, with so much support and love that will continue for years to come. In Dave's final days, the message he left with his wife, was to tell his family and friends to love each other and remain strong for each other. 

Dave was preceded in death by his grandparents, Paul and Wilhelmine Crow and Carl and Mary Rhoades; aunt, Joan Crow; uncle, Wesley Crow; and his canine companions, Maggie and Jackie.

Dave leaves to cherish his memory his wife, Sandra and dear puppy Buckeye; parents, Mike and Sandy; son, Paul (Italo Pareja) Rhoades; stepsons, Keith Bolley Jr. and Christopher (Desiree Fournier) Mierzejewski; sister, Michele Judkins; parents-in-law, David and Marie Durfey; Dave also leaves behind many other family members, nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles and tons of dear friends.

A visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. with a Funeral service, including a Fireman's service, to immediately follow, at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 4, 2024 at Newcomer Funeral Home - Southwest Chapel at 4752 Heatherdowns Blvd. Toledo, OH 43614.

Dave will be laid to rest at Roth Cemetery at a later date. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Toledo Humane Society or Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center in Dave’s honor.