OBITUARY
Edward Charles Rhodehamel
November 1, 1919 – August 24, 2017
In loving memory of Edward Charles Rhodehamel who passed away peacefully on August 24, 2017 surrounded by family. He was 97 years old. Edward is the dearest father of son, Chick (Jan Morrison), daughter, Shelley (Geoff) Street, son, Jeffery (Kim), stepdaughter Janice (Greg) Budnik, and stepson, Curtis (Shalee) Wilburn; Cherished grandfather of Dana, Jennifer, Andrew, Matthew, Alex, Sarah, Megan, and Christopher; Dear great-grandfather of Lydia Mae. He was preceded in death by first wife Rosemary Margaret Rhodehamel, and second wife, Octavia Rhodehamel. He was a graduate of Michigan State University, as well as a World War II Navy Veteran, commanding a mine sweeper protecting the Panama Canal and later, sweeping in advance of the Pacific Fleet. Ed worked as a geologist and geohydrologist with the US Geological Survey. His work both in the field and at the office was fundamental to the successful preservation of what is now the New Jersey Pinelands National Preserve. He later taught classes at George Mason University, and was active in the Bull Run Evergreen Lions Club. He was a Scoutmaster, little league coach, gardener, avid bowler, softball pitcher, horseshoe player, and runner long before it was popular. His memory is a blessing. The family will receive visitors on Friday, September 1, 2017 at Demaine Funeral Home – Fairfax from 11 AM until 1 PM, with the funeral service beginning at 1 PM. Interment will take place at Lakeview Cemetery in Blackstone, Virginia. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Park West Lions Club of Manassas VA, or Capital Caring Hospice in Falls Church VA. Online condolences may be made at www.demainefairfaxfuneralhome.com. ~
Services
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Visitation
Friday, September 1, 2017
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Visitation
Friday, September 1, 2017
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Funeral Service
Friday, September 1, 2017
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Funeral Service
Friday, September 1, 2017
Memories
Edward Charles Rhodehamel
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ADD A MEMORYAugust 31, 2017
August 31, 2017
It is with great gratitude and fondness that I remember Edward Rhodehamel, a brilliant geologist and geohydrologist with whom I had the privilege of going afield on numerous occasions during the formative years of the NJ Pinelands Commission (1979-early 1980s). He was a brilliant instructor, most generous with his time. I shall always cherish his memory.
Ted Gordon, Botanist, Southampton, NJ
Mark Demitroff
August 30, 2017
As a resident of the NJ Pinelands, I wish to pass along condolences, along with a sincere appreciation of the fine work Rhodehamel accomplished here. His legacy remains relevant today. Everyone who has paged through McPhee's book "The Pine Barrens" knows the prodigious metric the geohydrologist tallied17 trillion gallons of pristine groundwater! He has both our respect and gratitude.
Tim Caudle
August 30, 2017
To the Family of Mr. Rhodehamel:
I am very sorry to hear of your loss. Please know that you are in the thoughts and prayers of many others at this most difficult time. May God grant you peace and comfort during the days ahead.
Sincerely,
Tim Caudle
Sealed Air/Duncan, SC