DOVER - Ralph L. Rhoades passed away Wednesday, Dec. 12, 2012 at Kent General Hospital. Mr. Rhoades was born April 22, 1936 in W. Rockhill, Pa. to the late Arthur L. Rhoades, Sr. and Mary Reidnour Rhoades. He served in the United States Army for 22 years retiring in 1980 as a MSG. with the signal corp – and Defense Communications Agency. Ralph was also an instructor of electronics and communications at Fort Monmouth Army Base. While in the military he earned several medals, National Defense Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal with 60 Device, Good Conduct Medal (7th Award), Army Commendation Medal, Bronze Star Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal. After his retirement he went to work for the State of Delaware as chief operations for traffic lights in Bear, Del. retiring after 18 years in 1999. Mr. Rhoades enjoyed playing the electric guitar and organ and loved music. He was a member of the German American Club in Dover, the American Legion; he was a founding member of the National Museum of the US Army in Washington, D.C. and the United Methodist Church of Wyoming. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Arthur L. Rhoades, Jr.; and sister, Elaine Holleufer. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Helma Blome Rhoades of Dover; children, Wanda Townsend and her husband Jeff of Dover and Wayne Rhoades and his wife Julie of Dunnellen, Fla.; grandchildren, Lauren, Lindsay and Jeffrey, Jr. Townsend and Ryan Rhoades. Services will be private. In lieu of flowers the family suggests contributions be made to Delaware Hospice, 911 S. Dupont Highway, Dover, Delaware 19901. Letters of condolence may be sent, and guestbook signed at torbertfuneral.com.