John Rhea

John Robert Rhea (November 4, 1951-November 27, 2024) was born in Würzburg, Germany, to Judith Ann and Frank William Rhea. His father was a career military officer, so John grew up living with his family all over the world. When John was seventeen, he entered Virginia Tech as an aerospace engineering student and member of the tennis team. Unfortunately, two months into his first year he was in a life-altering car accident that caused a significant traumatic brain injury. John subsequently lived with his parents for 32 years, mostly in Golden, CO, and then in Boulder under the care of his sister Sally Ann for 23 years. During these years he enjoyed frequent trips with various family members, the highlight being a trip to Hawaii where he was asked to raise the flag at the Pearl Harbor Arizona Memorial. During most of his time in Boulder, John attended a day program at the Center for People With Disabilities, a program which brought meaning and joy to his life. The permanent closing of the program from the onset of Covid onward was devastating for him. John became a member of Boulder Elks Lodge 566 in 2017 and served both as the Americanism chair and as an officer. He was active in the Bible Study group at First United Methodist church.

John died peacefully in the company of his sister and niece. He is survived by his sisters Helen, Sally Ann, Susan, and Bettyjane, along with four nieces, three nephews, and many valued friends. A memorial service will be held at the First United Methodist Church, 1421 Spruce Street, on December 30 at 10:30, followed by a lunch in the church parlor. Memorial contributions may be made to All Roads Shelter, an organization that supports the community that supported John.