Robert K. Rhodes

Robert Kinkaid Rhodes, formerly of Camp Hill, PA, passed away on Sunday, September 13, 2026—five days shy of his 104th birthday. Born on September 18, 1922, in McKeesport, he was the son of the late Hobart and Dorothy (Kinkaid) Rhodes.

Bob grew up in Western PA and went on to continue his education at Penn State University. His studies at Penn State were interrupted by the onset of World War II. Following the attack on Pearl Harbor, Bob enlisted in the U.S. Navy, where he would serve as a commissioned officer on an LST in the Pacific. After his military service, he returned to Penn State and earned his bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering.

Soon after graduation, Bob married Ruth (Palmer) Rhodes, his wife of 77 years. The couple started a family and eventually settled in Camp Hill, where Bob began a long career in administration with the Pennsylvania Bureau of Corrections at the State Correctional Institution at Camp Hill. After decades of service, he retired as Director of Operations.

Bob was active in his community and belonged to the Lower Allen Township Sewer Authority. A dedicated Mason, he was a member of Lowther Manor Lodge #781, F.&A.M., Harrisburg Consistory, Zembo Shrine and its Luncheon Club, and National Sojourners Chapter 76 in Harrisburg. Last year, he was recognized for an extraordinary 80 years of Masonic service. Bob and Ruth were also longtime members of Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church.

Outside of his professional and civic life, Bob was an avid golfer who enjoyed playing courses throughout the area, and Penn State football was a staple on Saturdays every fall. He and Ruth spent the last 15+ years at Bethany Village in Mechanicsburg, where they embraced the community and formed many new friendships.

Bob had an easygoing nature and a way of making people feel comfortable. He and Ruth made lasting friendships throughout their 77 years together, and that continued during their years at Bethany Village. Above all, Bob was a devoted husband, a steady and nurturing father, and a dependable friend. His long life was defined by service, loyalty, and the relationships built along the way.

Surviving are his children, Robert P. Rhodes (Barbara) of Lincoln University and Linda R. Lorich (Bruce) of State College; five grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 77 years, Ruth (Palmer) Rhodes (d. 2024); and a brother and sister.

A public viewing will be held from 10AM until a funeral service begins at 11AM on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church, Camp Hill. Immediately following, burial will take place in Rolling Green Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a contribution in Bob’s name to Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church or Shriners Children's Hospital.