Earl Rhodes

Earl Jackson Rhodes, 81, of Gormania, WV, formerly of Ellicott City, MD, passed on Sunday, July 5, 2015 in Westminster, MD. Earl, born on March 20, 1934, in Loch Lynn, MD, to the late Bradley Washington Rhodes and Mina Ruth (Glass) Rhodes, graduated from Oakland High School in 1952.

During 1952-1956, Earl felt a calling to serve his country during the Korean War conflict and proudly served aboard the USS Tarawa as a Navy Boiler Technician Second Class Petty Officer. Upon an Honorable discharge, he chose to return to the Maryland area, particularly Baltimore, and work at Bethlehem Steel and several oil companies until 1970.

With a strong determination and a plethora of job skills, Earl was determined to become a successful Small Business Owner. Earl's Luber-Finer, established in 1971, was well known throughout the entire Baltimore area for its outstanding customer service and dedication to the intricate trucking industry. Earl's Luber Finer received numerous top business awards for its great service and sales within the industry.

In 1999, Earl decided to "hang up his hat," and pass the business to his two sons. He and his lovely bride Esther, of 59 years, began to enjoy frequent RV traveling across the country, while making many long-lasting relationships. Earl earnestly loved the great outdoors and thoroughly enjoyed hunting, camping, fishing and riding four-wheelers. Gardening, another favorite hobby, allowed him to spend even much more time outside; pampering his flowers, vegetables and fruit plants.

Lastly, Earl was also gainfully employed by the USPS on a part-time basis performing lawn care.

He was well known to be an innocent practical joker and he immensely enjoyed the company of family and friends. Earl always had a smile on his face and a story to tell; Earl's only medication: LAUGHTER and HUMOR.

He is survived by his children and their spouses: Dale and Rena Rhodes, Sykesville, MD; Cathy and Rick Varela, Fernandina Beach, FL; Bette and Larry Beachy, Westminster, MD; James and Patricia Rhodes, Fallston, MD; eight grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

He is also survived by his sisters, Jane Brenders, Mary Wurster, and June Deitke, Cleveland, OH; Nancy O'Connor, Chicago, IL; and his brother, Clarence Rhodes, Portland, ME. He is predeceased by his sister, Shirley Rhodes. Earl also enjoyed his many nieces, nephews and friends.

Family and friends may visit on Wednesday, July 8, from 6 to 8 PM and on Thursday, July 9, from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 PM at the C & S Fredlock Funeral Home, P.A., 21 N 2nd St., Oakland, MD. Funeral services will be celebrated on Friday, July 10, at 2 PM in the funeral home. Earl's and Esther's nephew, Pastor Marty Wilt will officiate. Interment, with military honors, will follow in the Deer Park Cemetery.

If desired, donations may be made to the Underwood United Brethren Church, 15 Old Crellin Road, Oakland, MD 21550.

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