Margaret Rhodes

Margaret Elizabeth Rhodes, 94, of Dresden, Kansas passed away on Tuesday June 25, 2019 at her daughter’s home in Liberal, Kansas.

She was born on November 3, 1924 to Harry and Sophia (Coles) Wilton at Kneehill Valley, Alberta, Canada.

On September 16, 1946 she married Russell Gene Rhodes at Norton, KS; he preceded her in death on September 1, 2013.

Margaret grew up and attended school at Kinuso, Alberta, Canada. She met her husband while he was stationed in Kinuso with the US Armed Forces. When she was 21 she traveled to Norton, KS where she and Russell were married. Once married they lived briefly near Dresden, KS where they farmed until Russell re-enlisted in the Air-Force. They lived in many different locations during Russell’s 26-year military career, where she made every destination a home. In 1972 they moved back to Dresden, KS to take over the family farm until 1986. She and Russell were caretakers of local cemeteries for over 20 years. She served her community in many ways as a long-time member of the Dresden City Council until retiring in September 2018. She was a Master Gardener and Life Member of the Kansas Associated Garden Clubs, a member of the Selden Garden Club, the Retired & Senior Volunteer Program and the Quilting Club, where they made quilts for veterans. In her earlier years she enjoyed farming and traveling alongside Russell, Rock Collecting, Camping, Sewing and Square Dancing. She also enjoyed Bird & Butterfly Watching, Stamp Collecting, Playing Games & Cards with her friends at the Selden Senior Citizens and spending time with her family. Margaret was also well-known for her beautiful penmanship.

Margaret is survived by Four Daughters- Marjorie Madsen of Spokane, WA, Nancy Mae Rhodes of Boise, ID, Carol Rhodes of Berkeley, CA, and Teresa Schiltz and husband Don of Liberal, KS; One Son- Ralph “Dusty” Rhodes of Boise, ID; One Sister- Dolphie Wilson of Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada; Nine Grandchildren; Six Great-Grandchildren;
One Great-Great-Grandson and special friend- Lillian Sulzman.

She was also preceded in death by her parents, Brother- Don Wilton, Sister- Mary Cornell, Sister-in-Law & Best Friend- Meredith Easter and Son-in-Law- Rick Madsen.

A Private Family Memorial Service will be held at a later date.

Memorials are suggested to the Selden Senior Citizens Group or the Dresden Cemetery Fund in care of Miller Mortuary PO Box 826 Liberal, KS 67905-0826.

Friends may send condolences to the family through Margaret’s tribute web page at www.millermortuary.net.