Douglas Earl “Bumpy” Rhoads, II, a devoted public servant and cherished family member, passed away at his home in rural Douglas County, on June 5, 2024. He was born in Joplin, Missouri, on May 30, 1960, and from a young age, he was inspired by his grandfather to pursue a career in law enforcement and public service.
In Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana, Doug dedicated 20 years of his life as a sheriff deputy, where he made a significant impact on the community he served. During his time in Louisiana, he discovered a passion for the volunteer fire service with the Welsh Township Fire Department. He became a certified Driver/Operator and Engineer, contributing to the safety and well-being of his neighbors.
In the early 2000’s, Doug moved to Kansas City to embark on a new career in private security. His commitment to public safety continued, and in 2004, he joined the Eudora Township Fire Department as a volunteer. His dedication and skills led him to advance to the rank of Lieutenant in the fire department. During this time, Doug earned Medical First Responder certification and served with the Eudora Community EMS Service. He also began volunteering with Douglas County Emergency Management, where he was an integral part of the Mobile Command Vehicle team, Skywarn, and the CERT team.
It is difficult to find a word that describes the depth to which Doug valued the brotherhood and camaraderie of the Fire Department and Emergency Management. He viewed his fellow firefighters and volunteers as his family and their bond meant the world to him.
In 2012, Doug and his wife moved to their new home in rural Douglas County, lovingly referred to as Green Acres. He cherished the peace, quiet, and open spaces that the new home offered.
Doug had many hobbies that brought joy to his life. He enjoyed fishing, working on Green Acres, smoking and grilling, watching and feeding hummingbirds, and playing online games with friends. Although he never thought he wanted a cat, he was delighted to be adopted by “Meow Mix”, who brought him much companionship and happiness.
His commitment to public service and his love for his family and community will be deeply missed. A memorial service to honor Doug will be held on Sunday June 23, 2024 at 1:00 pm at Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home in Lawrence. Following the service, a reception will be held at Green Acres.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Consolidated Fire District #1 Firefighter’s Fund. Donations may be mailed to Consolidated Fire District #1 Firefighter Fund 300 W 31st St. Lawrence, KS 66046
My deepest condolences, dearest Kirsten.
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Doug was my boss for may years at Waddell & Reed. I always told him- and it was the truth- he was the best boss I ever had. When ever I had a computer problem he alway said there was a short between the keyboard and chair –and it was the truth! He will alway be in my heart!!! Kirsten I am so sorry for your loss and I know you will miss him as well.
I had only met Doug a couple of times as volunteers with DGEM. He was so full of one liners and laughs. It was an honor to have met Doug.
My sincere condolences to Doug’s family and friends.
Doug was quite a character. We don’t remember very many things he said that would not be considered funny. Doug just had that way about him. Our favorite moment was at Green Acres when they lit the bonfire that turned into more or less a forest fire. It turned out to be very beneficial that there were many firefighters present at that time. The last time we saw Doug in April, he was the typical jokester and that’s how we will always remember him.
Rest in peace, good friend, we will miss you, but we will never forget you and all the times we have shared at DCEM. You were a joy to work with and it was a privilege to call you our friend. Until we meet again!
He will be missed and remembered for his dedication to the fire service.