Donald D. Rhodes, 97 of Paxton, passed away at 8:40 p.m. Tuesday, December 18, 2018, at his home.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Friday, December 21, 2018, at Baier Family Funeral Services, 406 E Pells Street, Paxton with Rev. Connie Williams Moodie officiating. Burial will follow in Glen Cemetery, Paxton with military honors.

Visitation will be one hour before the service beginning at 12:00 noon. Masonic services will be at 11:30 a.m. on Friday.

Don was born September 30, 1921 in Brownstown the son of Dewey Francis and Lena Nichols Rhodes. He married Dorothy D. Flessner August 22, 1946 in Amboy and had been married for almost 65 years. She preceded him in death August 3, 2011.

He is survived by a daughter, Linda Rhodes of Paxton; a son, Stan Rhodes of Rantoul; seven step granddaughters; 11 step great grandchildren and five step great-great grandchildren.

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents and daughter-in-law, Judith Rhodes.

He served in the United States Army from 1942-43. He was employed by the Illinois Central Railroad for 40 years as a telegrapher and agent retiring in 1982.

Don was a member of the Federated Church of Paxton, Paxton Masonic Lodge #416 AF & AM and past Worshipful Master in 1997 and also a member of Mount Olivet Commandery #38 and former member of the Ford Chapter 113 and Paxton Council #129. He was also a member of Buckley American Legion Byron A. Hickerson Post 432, Old Rails & New Ties Retired Railroaders Club and Dots & Dashes Telegraph Club.

He enjoyed flowers, gardening, watching old movies, camping, fishing, word search puzzles and model trains. He was also an avid baseball fan.

The family would like to thank his caregiver, Jan Bunke for her kindness and support.

Memorials may be made to the Federated Church of Paxton or an organization of the donor's choice. Condolences may be offered at www.baierfuneralservices.com.