Charles J. Rhoads, 71, died Nov. 9, 2017, at Lehigh Valley Hospital after a lengthy illness. He was the husband of Patricia Rhoads. They shared 29 years of marriage. They would always laugh at the fact that her maiden name was Rhoads. Born in Philadelphia, he was the son of the late Drs. Jonathan and Teresa Rhoads.

He was a life long member of Germantown Monthly Meeting (Religious Society of Friends). His family was his life, loving Sunday dinners and sharing experiences of their lives. He shared memories of summers with the family at their retreat in Kearsage, N.H., and other life experiences with friends. Those who knew him knew his gift of gab, whether it was politics, medical policies, racing or whatever, he was ready to offer his views.

He was a graduate of Westtown School in 1965 and Philadelphia Textile (now University) in 1975 with a B.A. in business, he was co-owner of Rhoads Press from 1976 until its close in 2004.

In 1967 to 1968, he served in the Army in a non-combative status as an ambulance driver in a MASH unit six miles from the DMZ.

His love of auto racing began in his teens when he worked at a garage. The mechanic owned a stock car, for which Charles designed a trailer. Since that time, he was a devoted race fan of both NASCAR and stock car races, often found at Big Diamond and Grandview on the weekends.

He was a member of Trexlertown and later Emmaus Kiwanis Club, and the Concerned East Penn Taxpayers. He was also on the board of the Lehigh Valley Commentator.

He is survived by his wife; brothers, Jonathan and his wife Julia, George and his wife Frances and his twin Philip and his wife Jane; brother-in-law, Adam Kendon; sister-in-law Barbara Rhoads; 13 nieces and nephews; 24 great-nieces and great-nephews and his buddy Harry (cat). He was predeceased by a sister Margaret Kendon and brother, Edward.

In lieu of flowers, call a friend or take one out to lunch. Contributions may be made to Germantown Monthly Meeting or Emmaus Kiwanis Club, Att.: Special Needs Christmas Party, c/o funeral home.

A Celebration of Life will be held 2 p.m. Nov. 18 at the Trexler Funeral Home, 1625 W. Highland St., Allentown, 18102. Calling hours begin 1 p.m. A memorial service will be held 2 p.m. Nov. 25 at the Germantown Monthly Meeting, 47 West Coulter St., Philadelphia, 19144.