Hiram Rhoads

Hiram 'Dusty' S. Rhoads, age 87 of Dalton, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family Friday evening, April 20, 2012 at Golden Living Center in Wisconsin Dells. Dusty was born on January 5, 1925 in Taylorville, IL to Samuel and Goldie (Simpson) Rhoads. He attended school in Springfield, IL and furthered his education at Art Center College in California. Dusty served his country during World War II as a member of the United States Navy. Following his years in service, he was employed by the State Department and stationed in Europe. In 1956, Dusty married the love of his life, Deloris 'Dee' Smith in California. She preceded him in death on February 6, 1991. Dusty began his career in California as a photographer; taking pictures of the movie stars of that generation. Later, he went on to own and operate multiple military academies on both the East and West coasts. The next chapter of Dusty's life was surrounded by yachting; he and Dee sailed throughout the world as well as working as a yacht realtor for his own company titled Sailing West, Inc. After yachting, Dusty toured Mexico extensively and later produced a documentary film and also published a book about his travels. In his later years, he resided in the Dalton area with his brother-in-law, Don and Doris Smith. Dusty is survived by seven brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Don (Doris) Smith of Dalton, Harold (Marcella) Smith of Morehead, MN, Thelma Burkle of Fargo, ND, Mary Smith of Windsor, Phyllis Farrell of Dalton, Verna Roidt of Montello, Betty Lou Peterson of Halstad, MN and Shirley Flieth of Jamestown, ND. He is also survived by his niece, Cheryl Smith and three nephews: Don, Jody and Jeff Smith who he embraced as if they were his own children. Dusty is further survived by many other nieces, nephews and dear friends. Dusty is preceded in death by his parents, wife and brother, William Jacob Rhoads as well as many other family members. Following Dusty's wishes, he was cremated and a private family inurnment will take place at a later date in Galesburg, North Dakota where he will be laid to rest next to his wife. Crawford Funeral Home of Montello is assisting the family with arrangements. www.CrawfordFH.com