Walter L. Rhoades

Walter Lloyd Rhoades, born February 14, 1934, in Philip, South Dakota, passed away peacefully in his home on November 20th, 2024, at the age of 90. He was surrounded by family and loved ones during his final moments.

Walter was the son of Alpha Rhoades and Sadie (Christiansen) Rhoades. His family moved to Brewster when he was 2 years old. The Sandhills is where he developed a love for ranching and a strong work ethic that would carry him throughout his life. He graduated from Dunning High School in 1953. He enlisted in the Army after graduation and served 2 years. After his time in the military he went to work in Climax, Colorado in the mines. He later returned to the Sandhills where he worked for ranchers and competed in calf ropings and steer wrestling. After some time he purchased his own ranch. 

Walter married Marilyn (Miller) Rhoades September 23rd, 1960, and together they built a loving home and family. Walter was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend to too many to count. His family was his greatest pride, and he took joy in the moments spent with them, especially when those moments were spent working on the ranch or at a rodeo. He didn't want for much, apart from quality horses- which Marilyn says was his only downfall. 

Walter will be leaving behind a legacy of service, dedication, and impact on the community. He served three terms as a County Commissioner. His passion for agriculture was evident in his 19-year tenure as a representative for the ABS (Artificial Breeding Services), where he was one of the first to implement these services to the area. During this time, he taught many local ranchers how to perform pregnancy checks and artificial insemination, helping to improve local livestock genetics. With that, he was known as the neighborhood vet. A proud member of the American Legion, he was also a member of the local Town Board for many years, served on the County fair board, and was a promoter of 4-H. His mentorship extended beyond politics and service; he was a guiding figure for many young people, helping to raise and support numerous “bonus sons” throughout the community, always eager to lend a hand and share his wisdom. 

Walter was salt of the earth. He will be remembered for his deep commitment to family, community, and the land, leaving a lasting imprint on the lives of those who had the privilege of knowing him.

Walter was preceded in death by his parents Alpha and Sadie Rhoades. In-Laws Keith and Ethel Miller. Infant brother, Duwayne Rhoades and infant son, Martin Rhoades, who both passed away after birth. By brother-in-laws Monte McFate, Richard Fowler and Richard Smith. By sister-in-laws Charlene Rhoades and Carolyn Smith. He is survived by his wife Marilyn Rhoades, children Delten (Tracy) Rhoades and Tracy (Justin) Bradley, Jack Miller, grandchildren Blayne (Kadi) Bradley, Gussie (Jack) Gibbens, Taylor (Keith) Helm, Kaylee (Bret) Obermiller, JT (Britni) Bradley, Brayden Rhoades and friend Lane Deisley, Zack Bradley and friend Madi Fields, great-grand children Wakely and Jayda Bradley, Jolie Gibbens, Breece Helm, Lainey Obermiller, siblings Claude Rhoades, Madeline McFate, Joyce Fowler, Marion (Merrial) Rhoades, Pat (Terry) Cone and many extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly.

A celebration of Walter’s life will be held on Monday, November 25th at 2:00 pm at the Brewster Community Center. Burial will be at the Brewster cemetery following the service. There will be a meal served after the burial at the Brewster Community Center. The visitation will be held Sunday, November 24th from 3:00-4:00 pm at Uncle Bucks Lodge. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that all memorials may be directed to the Brewster Community Center, the Brewster American Legion, and UCC Church of Brewster in his memory. Govier Brothers Mortuary is in charge of the arrangements. Words of encouragement and remembrance can be left at www.govierbrothers.com 

Walter’s family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Amanda and Katelyn from AseraCare Hospice Care for their all their help during our family’s time of need. And a special thank you to all the people who visited Walter in his last few months of life. Those visits meant more to him and our family than you will ever know.