Jack L. Rhoades

Jack L. Rhoades, 87, was born in Indianapolis on February 16, 1927, to Lola Christine (Prather) and Vern Rhoades. He married Wilma Jean White on December 24,1949, celebrating their 65th anniversary this year. Jack was an aviation pioneer who from 1965 to 2014 owned and operated multiple companies, most simultaneously including a world wide airline. Seymour Airomotive FBO, Rhoades International, Rhoades Aircraft Sales, Rhoades Aviation FBO, Polestar, LWL, J&R Aircraft Leasing, Paxair and Rhoades Air Center FBO provided world wide aviation services in Africa, Mexico, Canada, Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic and South America all headquartered in Columbus and Seymour, Indiana. His interest in historic aircraft lead to the purchase of multiple P-51 Mustangs and the rescue and restoration of a B-25 from World War II which is active in air shows today. Beyond his passion for flying, he enjoyed and participated in auto racing, boating and deep sea fishing. Jack was a car owner and entrant in the Indianapolis 500 with Rhoades Racing Team from 1979 to 1982 and qualified in 1980 finishing 16th; 1981 in 5th place with 10 laps to go finished 10th due to engine failure; 1982 finished 15th with Chip Ganassi as fastest rookie qualifier. Daytona 500 1976: Sponsored Salt Walther, Cart Events: 1980-83, 23 starts, USAC 1976-79 Silver Crown and Sprint Car events, qualified for the pole at 1978 Hoosier Hundred and finished 3rd at Du Quoin. Jack had the gift of giving, the heart for caring and the passion for adventure. He will be greatly missed and always remembered as the consument optimist, loyal friend, beloved father, grandfather and husband. He is survived by his wife; daughter, Angela Robertson (Bud); son, Darryl Rhoades (Kelly); brother, Ronald Rhoades; grandchildren, Alex and Devan Rhoades of Columbus, IN, Brooke Robertson of North Chicago, Illinois and Kristen Rhoades of Phoenix, Arizona. He was preceeded in death by his parents; a son, Aaron Duane Rhoades; and sister, Garnet Harbart. Visitation will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. Wednesday January 14, 2015, followed by a service all at the North Christian Church 850 Tipton Lane, Columbus, IN. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Atterbury-Bakalar Air Museum. Arrangements have been entrusted to Myers-Reed Dignity Memorial Chapel. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.myers-reed.com. A gathering at Smith's Row restaurant will follow for family and friends.