Seth Ryan Rhodes

Seth R. Rhodes, age 44, died suddenly of an undiagnosed aortic aneurism on the evening of November 15, 2017, at his home on South Lake Samish in Bellingham.

Although born in New Mexico, Seth spent 43 of his years in Bellingham. An Eagle Scout, he loved the woods, hiking and camping in the mountains, kayaking or falling off his paddleboard in the lake, and, especially, fishing. He played football for Sehome High School, University of Puget Sound and Western Washington University. He loved watching all sports and had a considered opinion on every team’s yearly prospects. He also had a passion for gardening, cooking, and brewing. No one was more adept at cooking or smoking meat over an open fire. Barbecues at his place on the lake were legendary.

Seth is survived by his life partner, Dawn McKenney, his parents, Rick and Sheila Rhodes of Bellingham, and his younger brothers: Alan Rhodes and wife, Keri Straka, of Massachusetts, and their three children, Jasper, Orion and Dosalena, and his brother, Owen Rhodes and wife Breane Martinez, of Kingston, Washington, and their two sons, Benett and Jax.

Seth treasured his friends. The year following college graduation he and his best friend spent exploring the world and snowboarding mountains from Washington to California. Then he chose a profession that allowed him to work with his hands. He loved working outdoors and breathing new life into older homes. Professionally, he was an artist. He has left a legacy of beautifully landscaped grounds, elegant, functional remodeled homes, and lovely furniture fashioned from repurposed wood and granite from past building projects.

On a personal level he has left those who knew and loved him a rich collection of stories and memories that will keep him alive in our hearts. He was a gentle giant who had a zest for life, an appreciation for the little things that often go unnoticed, an irreverent sense of humor, and a great tolerance for his fellow man. He had a special relationship with his dog, Bear, another gentle giant, who died a few hours after Seth.

A celebration of life is planned for early July, 2018, at the family home. In lieu of memorials, enjoy time with the people you love. Take a moment to savor a sunrise or frost glittering on grass and shrubs. Smell the rich fragrance of the Northwest woods. Those were his favorite things.