Robert Dusty Garrett Rhodes

RHODES, Robert G. “Dusty”, 96, of Midlothian, passed away peacefully on February 8, 2014, after a long and fulfilling life. He was preceded in death by his wife of 48 years, Virginia Isbell Rhodes; brother, A. William Rhodes; and sister, Dorothy Brasuell. He is survived by his brother, J. David Rhodes and his wife Grace, of Pittsburgh, Pa.; and numerous nephews and nieces. Bob was born in Wilkinsburg, Pa., in 1917. He received a B.S. degree from the University of Pittsburgh, and a MBA from the Wharton Graduate School of the University of Pennsylvania. He served as an artillery officer in World War II and retired as Lt. Colonel from the Army Reserve, after 28 years of service. Bob spent most of his adult life in Alexandria, Va., where he had a long and sucessful career in the Federal Government, including staff planning for the Secretary of Commerce and the Deputy Director of the office of Policy of the Interstate Commerce Commission. In these positions he conducted or directed many important policy studies involving all modes of transportation. He was a nationally recognized authority on transportation statistics. He became a charter member of the (Federal Government) Senior Executive Services in 1979. After retiring from the Federal service in 1980, he continued his work in transportation consulting with A.T. Kearney Inc. His work in this capacity covered railroad mergers, railroad rates, management of the Saudi Arabian bus service, paper company logistics and product recall logistics. Bob was a member of the Belle Haven Country Club, Alexandria, Va., and the Salisbury Country Club, Midlothian, Va., where he entertained his friends and family, played golf and cards, his most favorite things to do. Bob was a gentle soul, consummate gentleman with an unwaving cheerful demeanor. Though the last few years were very difficult for him, he always greeted you with a warm smile and welcome! Full Military Honors Services will be conducted at 9am, Tuesday, June 17 2014, at Arlington National Cemetery, with interment to follow immediately thereafter.