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ESCANABA -- Ross William Rhoads, 85, of Palmetto, FL, passed away early Saturday morning, August 8, 2026, at OSF St. Francis Hospital in Escanaba.
He was born on January 10, 1941, in Comins, MI, the son of the late Sheridan and Verna (Gusler) Rhoads. Ross was raised in Comins and graduated from Fairview Area Schools with the Class of 1959. He continued his education at Central Michigan University, earning his master's degree in 1968.
Ross moved to Rapid River to pursue his career as a science teacher at Rapid River High School. He later became a State Farm Insurance Agent, a career he enjoyed until his retirement in 2006.
On May 12, 1990, Ross married Joan Claire Vanlerberghe in Escanaba. Their love brought not only two hearts together, but two families as well. Through their 36 years of marriage, they built a life centered around family, love, laughter, and the many memories they created together.
After retirement, Ross and Joan made their home in Palmetto, Florida, where Ross especially enjoyed the warmer climate and the relaxed pace of life. Their Florida home became an important part of their lives, filled with social gatherings, activities, and friendships that Ross treasured. During the warmer months, they returned to Michigan, where they loved spending time with family and friends and enjoying all that home had to offer. Ross and Joan were known for being a team, and they even had a special tradition of dressing alike for many of their social events. Whether attending a gathering in Florida or enjoying time with friends and family in Michigan, they enjoyed doing it together.
Ross had many interests that brought him joy throughout his life. He enjoyed hunting and fishing, and he continued hunting until just a few years ago. He also had a true passion for firearms, including building guns and carefully reloading his own ammunition. He enjoyed the craftsmanship and attention to detail that came with the hobby.
Family was at the heart of Ross's life, and he had a special way of entertaining the grandchildren. He could turn an ordinary moment into a game, whether it was a thumb-wrestling match or one of his magic tricks. His playful spirit, quick wit, and willingness to entertain created countless memories for the grandchildren and great-grandchildren who loved spending time with him. He took great pride in his family and cherished the time they spent together.
Ross is survived by his wife, Joan Rhoads of Palmetto, FL; children, Kris (John) Zubek of Tawas City, MI, Brian (Shirley) Rhoads of Rifle, CO, John (Lisa) Kositzky of Gladstone, MI, Laura (Butch) Vizineau of Escanaba, and Jody Mathias of Canton, MI; grandchildren, Karli (Matt) Hensler of Grand Ledge, MI, Zakary Zubek of Tawas City, MI, Kyle Rhoads of Petoskey, MI, Brianna Rhoads
of Petoskey, MI, Johnny (Sophia) Kositzky of Grafton, WI, Joseph Kositzky of Gladstone, MI, Courtney Vizineau of Escanaba, Shae (Zach) Vizineau of Escanaba, Jaxon Vizineau of Augusta, GA, Conor Mathias of Canton, MI, and Thomas (Shelby) Masich of Marquette, MI; five great-grandchildren; siblings, Dean Rhoads and Sheridan Rhoads; brother-in-law, Wally Harris; sister-in-law, Rebecca Rhoads; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
In addition to his parents, Ross was preceded in death by his siblings, Milton Rhoads, Phyllis Harris, Maurice Rhoads, and Ruby Jenner; sisters-in-law, Jan Rhoads, Bonnie Rhoads, and Judy Rhoads; brother-in-law, Bob Jenner; and grandsons, Maddox Vizineau and Brendan Vizineau.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 12, from 2-4 p.m. at Crawford Funeral Home, 302 S. 13th St., Escanaba. The funeral service will follow at 4 p.m., with Rev. Timothy Ferguson officiating.
Condolences may be directed to the family by visiting www.crawfordfuneralhomes.net. The arrangements are in the care of Crawford Funeral Homes.
