Funeral services celebrating the life of Russell Eugene Rhoads, 86, of Newark, will be held at the REED-EGAN FUNERAL HOME, 141 Green Wave Drive, Newark, 2 P.M., Thursday, December 22, 2016 with Chaplain Jeff Smith officiating. Interment will follow in Wilson Cemetery with military honors provided by the Licking County Veterans Alliance.

Russell died at the Kindred Care & Rehabilitation Center on Monday, December 19, 2016. He was born in Williamsport, Ohio on December 3, 1930 to the late Leslie and Nellie Rhoads.

A United States Navy Veteran, Russell worked for over 50 years with the Plumber and Pipefitters Union Local 189. He enjoyed spending time outdoors, hunting, fishing, and tending to his large vegetable garden. Russell loved to welcome people into his home, and at onetime was an avid horseshoe player.

He is survived by his children, Sandie Faris, Pattie (David) Wenger, Russ Jr. (Janet) Rhoads, and Jeff Rhoads; 7 grandchildren; 6 great grandchildren; 1 great-great-grandchild; his brother, Marvin (Bev) Rhoads; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Russell was preceded in death by his wife Betty Lou (Keefer) Rhoads, his granddaughter, Jennifer Fickell; and his 8 siblings.

Friends and family may call at the funeral home for one hour prior to the funeral service on Thursday.

To share your memory of Russell or leave a condolence for the family, please visit www.reedegan.com.