Gregory M. Rhodes - Adel

Greg Rhodes, 52, son of Gary and Judy Rhodes, passed away June 30, 2012 in Tucson, Arizona. Visitation will begin at 2 p.m. Sunday, July 8, 2012 at McCalley Funeral Home in Adel where family will greet friends 4 to 7 p.m. A private family service will be July 9, 2012 with burial at the Van Meter Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be directed to the family at 32296 R Ave, Adel, IA 50003. Online condolences may be made at mccalleyfuneralhome.com. Greg was born May 5, 1960 in Des Moines. His childhood was spent in Van Meter, IA where he graduated from high school in 1978. After graduation, Greg began his own window cleaning business and had clients in Iowa and Kansas City. Eventually he moved his family to Tucson, AZ where his business continued to grow. One of his main contracts was with the University of Arizona. Greg was a loving father who enjoyed spending time with his children, deep-sea fishing, scuba diving in Mexico, and playing his guitar. To sum up a person's life on a piece of paper is impossible. To say what Greg meant and still means to loved ones, cannot be put into words. Those close to him already know his character, and we will hold that with us for the rest of our lives. However, for those who were maybe not as close to Greg, we can share thoughts that can help paint a picture of how special of a person Greg was. The motto "Live Life to the Fullest" best describes Greg's attitude towards life. His fearless nature led him to many thrilling experiences. He loved to take his boat to Mexico on deep-sea fishing and scuba diving trips. Skydiving? Yes! Bull riding? Why not! Greg loved adventure and if you weren't careful, you might wind up with him stranded in a broken boat at night in the middle of the ocean being towed away to shore by a Mexican shrimp boat...AND HE THINKS IT'S FUNNY! That's just one of many stories that could be told by friends and family. Greg was the happiest when with his children. As a father of four, he valued every minute he could spend with his wonderful children. Karly, his firstborn daughter, her husband, Ray, and Greg's first granddaughter, Braelynn, recently spent time with Greg. This reunion brought a new joy into his life. Greg was proud of the great mother that Karly had turned out to be. He greatly respected Ray and found immense comfort in the conversations they shared. He was always looking forward to spending as much time as possible with his three other children, Justin, Matthew and Rachel. He lived for those times. He promoted and took part in each one's special interests in life. He was so proud of their accomplishments. Whether it was BMX racing, activities and good grades in school, scuba diving or scooter tricks. Great times were had camping, boating, fishing, and just being with each other at the pool and hot tub. Greg's passion for playing his Gibson guitar and the love of the music of his era were passed onto his children. His ability to promote fun-loving craziness with them will be a treasure for each one. He loved each one as much as the other and even when circumstances didn't allow them to be together, they were always in his thoughts. As a son, Greg realized how lucky he was to have such loving parents as Gary and Judy. They valued his companionship as much as he valued theirs. Not only were they supportive throughout Greg's life, they were close friends. Greg was the oldest of four brothers, each spaced four years apart. Scott, Cory and Chris will always look up to him. Even though they were oftentimes hundreds of miles apart, they maintained an inner bond with each other that was inseparable. It is still inseparable and always will be. The times they could all be physically together will always be cherished. Greg's career fit with his daring personality. It began in Des Moines as a window cleaner. If there were a way to get to a window, Greg would figure it out. Repelling off of a high-rise building, fighting wind and freezing temperatures were everyday conditions Greg had to adapt to. That, along with Greg's charismatic personality gained the respect of his employers and led him to acquiring several accounts in Des Moines and Kansas City. After moving to Tucson, Greg was able to establish a relationship with the University of Arizona, not only washing windows but also solving problems with various building maintenance issues. He was a hard worker with a job that was very physically demanding. Greg is survived by his parents; children, Karly (Ray), Justin, Matthew, and Rachel; brothers, Scott (Brenda), Cory (Carrie), and Chris (Stacey); and granddaughter, Braelynn. Greg's infectious personality, sense of humor and values set the bar high for others to follow. Those that were lucky enough to have Greg as a part of their lives are truly blessed. It is important that we all replace the painful memories of Greg's passing with happy stories and thoughts. It's what Greg would want. We Love You Greg and you will be missed dearly. Visitation: Will begin at 2 p.m. Sunday Family will greet friends from 4 to 7 p.m. with a prayer service at 7 p.m. McCalley Funeral Home in Adel