Professor Lee W. Rhodes, Ph.D

Professor Lee W. Rhodes, Ph.D

December 7, 1927 – February 11, 2012
Resident of Laguna Beach, CA. At the age of 84 years young, Lee passed away due to complications following surgery.
Lee was the third of seven children born to Herman and Sadie Rhodes, and raised in Forks, Washington. After graduating from Forks High School, Lee enlisted in the US Marine Corps. He served honorably in WW11 aboard ship in the Mediterranean, then subsequently on land in the Korean War. Following his military service, Lee graduated from University of Washington with a BS Biology. He completed advanced degrees in Colorado including a Master’s degree in Education and in later life, a Ph.D. in Leadership and Human Behavior from the United States International University.
Lee was a professor of Biology at Saddleback College for many years and then served as a trustee following retirement.
Recently, as a volunteer, he taught computer skills at the Laguna Beach Senior Center (always the teacher).
As an elder of the Cowlitz Indian Tribe, Lee served as tribal historian.
Lee was also an avid Fine Woodworker and enjoyed making toys and heirloom furniture for all his grandchildren.
Predeceased by brothers George, Gene, Gerald and Donnie, sister Dorothy and his beloved sons Randi and stepson Kevin.
Lee leaves behind his loving wife Elizabeth (Betsy), his sister Nadine, his step-children Alison & Son in-law Kevin Defrese, Duane Cromleigh, Heather & Son in-law Bart D’Alfonso, and Cynthia & son in-law Marcus Crahan, and his adoring grandchildren Patrick and Aidan Defrese, Catherine and Christine Crahan, and Cooper and Trevor Neilsen.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to Oxfam America or Plan USA.
Lee and Betsy’s mission in life is to provide food, shelter, and education to those less fortunate.
Services scheduled for Saturday March 24th, 11am at St Mary’s Episcopal Church located at 428 Park Avenue, Laguna Beach, CA.