Walter Marion Rhoades

Walter M. Rhoades
Walter was born on April 22nd, 1939 in Caldwell, Idaho to Eva Marrion Mager Rhoades and Walter Faye Rhoades. His family had moved several times but in 1947 they settled down in Soda Springs, Idaho. As a child Walter and his family grew up in the mountains and he enjoyed being with all his brothers and sisters, but he always had a special bond with his older brother Al Rhoades. They often went fishing and hunting with each other and were inseparable. Walter lived there until Jan 16th, 1958 when he enlisted in the United States Army.
While in the Army Walter was married to his first wife Valois Brown and they had two sons Sydney Rhoades and Mikel Rhoades. While serving our country he also took classes and earned his GED which was no small feat. After 6 years of service Walter decided he was ready to leave the army and was given an honorable discharge On April 13th, 1962.
Once being honorably discharged from the Army, Walter returned to Idaho to be with his family. Times were tough and it was difficult to get work but after several days of persistence and a bit of persuasion he gained employment with the Simplot, Pocatello Don Plant as a laborer. Walter always wanted to do the best he could for his family so he found himself yet again taking classes working towards a certification so he could perform mechanical maintenance at the plant. Once again this was no small feat Walter gained his certification on August 4th, 1982. From that point, he performed maintenance for the entire plant. On April 27th, 2001 Walter had been employed with the Simplot Company for 41 years and retired as a Class A Maintenance Man.
During those years Walter had went through divorce with his first wife Valois Rhoades but continued to care for his two sons, Sydney and Mikel until they moved away. Later, Walter’s two close friends Kathy and Larry Carlson introduced him to Alberta M. (Harman) Province they both were reluctant to go on a date but eventually agreed. At the time, he didn’t know it but had found the love of his life. Alberta had a daughter of her own Julie Province from a previous marriage and Walter was instantly fond of Julie he loved her as his own. Not long after Walter proposed to Alberta and legally adopted Julie. Walter and Alberta decided their family still wasn’t quite big enough so it grew a little bit more when they decided to have their son James Rhoades.
The outdoors continued to be a love Walter had and would often go camping, fishing or hunting with his family. He especially enjoyed when his older brother Al could come along. Al was still a big part of his life and was also a special part of Walter’s family. Julie and James felt Al was like a second father and Alberta loved him as a brother. They all built long lasting memories and will forever cherish those times.
Walter loved animals. He had a fondness for horses and had a great talent for training and riding them. This was a talent he passed on to his family. He continued to love riding horses with his family but in his later years he had to trade the horses for atvs.
Walter’s love for animals was shared with his wife Alberta. They both fell in love with the miniature schnauzer breed and decided to get a puppy who they named Pepper Jack. He quickly became part of the family and often joined them on their adventures while riding the atv with Walter. Walter enjoyed riding through the mountains and seeing the sights while showing his family amazing places he and his siblings explored while growing up. In his final days Walter, enjoyed spending quality time with his wife enjoying a cup of coffee while watching tv and often finding themselves outdoors doing puzzle books while just enjoying each other’s companionship. He enjoyed the frequent visits from his children and their spouses, grandchildren, and extended family. Sadly, Pepper Jack had passed. Walter and Alberta felt yet again the family was a bit small so they decided to bring another addition into the family, Walter and Alberta fell in love with a schnauzer puppy they got. They appropriately had named him Shadow as he followed Walter everywhere they were instant companions and Shadow often kept him amused.
Once again, our family wishes to give special thanks and extend our appreciation to all the nurses, doctors, and staff at Portneuf Medical Center. They went above and beyond our expectations in caring for our husband, father, and grandfather, Walter Rhoades.
Our love and gratitude goes out to all our friends and family that have given us the love and support we need during this time. We would especially like to extend special thanks to Albert and Therese Varela, Alicia Ward, and Lillian Pianezzi for providing food and refreshments at Walter’s memorial. We would also like to thank Albert and Therese Varela for opening their home to us for to have Walter’s memorial.

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