Obituary of Stephen RHODES

Stephen Rhodes

May 13, 1952 - March 1, 2023

It is with deep regret we announce the passing of Steve Rhodes at Bethel Hospice, Wednesday, March 1, 2023, in his 70th year. 

Steve leaves behind the love of his life, his wife Dorean Boss, sharing 39 years together; his step-daughters Kathleen Matchett (Stephen), Elaine Hannay (Kevin) and step-grandchildren Madison and Ryan.  Beloved brother to Christine Bouwkamp (Jack); nephews Jayson Bouwkamp (Lindsay); Stephen Bouwkamp (Julie) and great nieces Jenna and Ellie, Anna, Maita and great nephews, Gunnar and Jacob.

Born May 13, 1952 in Keighley, Yorkshire, England to Margaret Rhodes (Hastings) and Albert Rhodes, Stephen was the eldest of 2 children, with his family immigrating to Canada in 1957.  

Steve was President of the Public Relations firm "The Marketing Pad "(2006 – 2021),  and contributed widely to the community through many volunteer clubs and organizational memberships.

He was a long standing member  (2001-2023), and Past President (2010/2011), of the Brampton Board of Trade.

Steve was a dedicated Rotarian as a member of the Brampton Rotary Club, Rotary International District 7080. He served as Public Relations Chair/Vision Chair (July 2009-Jan. 2013) and as Chair of the Rotary Club Rib N Roll Committee.

In his role as consultant, Steve contributed to Carabram, Brampton's Multicultural Festival, and was a member of the Board of Directors of Grace Place Community Resource Centre. 

Steve held several positions in his over 30 years in the newspaper industry, (1974-2004) as a reporter, notably on the Queen's Park beat, and later as Publisher/ Managing Editor for 7 local papers. He was also a Published Author via "Trade Talks" and "The Marketing Pad Blogger". 

A devoted member of St. Bartholomew's United Church, he served as Chair of the Board of Trustees and Vice Chair/Chair of the Official Board. He implemented and strengthened the communications core of the Church as editor of the newsletter, and manager of St. Bart's Social Media presence.  When the pandemic began, Steve set up Zoom meetings and migrated recorded worship services for viewing on the Church website and for live streaming on YouTube. He also lent his voice to the bass section of the Church choir.

Steve was a cheerfully unassuming volunteer at heart, and his contributions were immeasurable. He will be dearly missed and his memory will remain in our hearts forever. 

There will be no visitation.  A Service of Remembrance and Thanksgiving will be held at St. Bartholomew’s United Church, 22 Abbey Road, Brampton, on Wednesday March 15th at 1pm.  A reception will immediately follow in St. Bart’s Balsdon Hall.

As an expression of sympathy, please consider making a donation in Steve’s name to Bethell Hospice, Inglewood Ontario, or the charity of your choice.

Online condolences may be made at www.imfunerals.com

In Memoriam Funeral Services Inc. has been given the honour to serve the Rhodes Family.