James D. Rhoads

James D. Rhoads, 83, of Exeter Township, passed away on Friday, February 28, 2020, surrounded by his loving family. He was the devoted husband of Nancy A. (Rhoads) Rhoads with whom he celebrated 61 years of marriage. Born in Amityville, Pennsylvania, he was the son of the late Harvey and Hazel (Hadley) Rhoads. Jim was a graduate of Amity Township High School, Albright College with a degree in Math and Physics and the Pennsylvania State University with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. He was also a member of the Pennsylvania Professional Engineering Society. Upon graduation from Penn State, James was first employed by Carpenter Technology and then by Kawecki-Berylco Industries. For the last 30 years of his career, he was the Vice President of Engineering and Operations for DORMA Architectural Hardware in Reamstown, Pa. After retirement from DORMA, Jim taught math courses for the four years, at BCTC at both the Oley and Lessport campuses. He also helped his son-in-law at his business, TAB Industries, in Reading, Pa. Jim was a long time member of Reformation Lutheran Church where he served on the Church Council for several years. Jim is also survived by three children that he loved very much; a daughter, Beth, wife of Thomas Brizek of Exeter, a daughter, Elyse wife of Randy Miller of Exeter and a son, Steve and his wife Kara of Wernersville. In addition, there are six wonderful grandchildren of whom he was very proud: Andrew Brizek husband of Kelly, Paige wife of Michael Opdyke, Steven Miller husband of Elise, Ross and Bethany Miller and Jimmy Rhoads. He is also survived by three great grandchildren Whitney Brizek, Molly Brizek, and Drew Opdyke as well as a brother, Henry husband of Gloria and a sister, Ann. He was pre-deceased by his brothers, Gilbert and Harvey Earl (Jeff). Visitation with family and friends will be held on Thursday, March 5, 2020 from 9:00 am to 10:00 am with services beginning at 10:00 am in Reformation Lutheran Church 3670 Perkiomen Ave Reading, Pa. Interment will be private at St. Paul's Cemetery, Amityville. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Reformation Lutheran Church, 3670 Perkiomen Ave., Reading, Pennsylvania 19606. Lutz Funeral Home, Inc. is in charge of arrangements. For online condolences, please visit www.LutzFuneralHome.com