Robert “Dennis” Rhea, 67, of Bourbon, Ind., passed away on Monday, Feb. 25, 2013, at Lutheran Hospital of Fort Wayne, Ind.

He was born in Riverton, Wyo., on April 24, 1945. On Aug. 26, 1967, Dennis married Mary Purdum.

After graduating high school, Dennis honorably served his country for four years in the United States Navy as a Seabee. He went on to earn a Bachelor’s of Science degree in education. He taught carpentry and building trades. Dennis was a member of the Camp Creek Church of the Brethren of Nappanee.

Dennis is survived by his wife of 45 years: Mary Rhea, Bourbon; two daughters: Denise Clark, Nappanee, Ind.; and Catherine Ann (Jason) Rinehart, Eugene, Ore.; a son: Robert Dennis Rhea Jr., Pittsburg, Kan.; seven grandchildren: Samantha, Felisha, Joshua, Hayley, McKenzie, Kaitlyn and Nicholas; one great-grandchild: Emma; his mother: Catherine Rhea, Freeport, Maine; a brother: Rick Rhea, Freeport, Maine; and two sisters: Janine (Hank) Clemmons, Oregon, Wisc.; and Caroline (Charlie) McLaren, Kelseyville, Calif.

He was preceded in death by his adoptive father: William; and a sister: Terri Dickenson.

Visitation will be from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, March 1, at Camp Creek Church of the Brethren in Nappanee. A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, March 2, at the church. Pastor Mark Riege will officiate the service.

Memorial contributions may go to the Camp Creek Church of the Brethren.

Mishler Funeral Home, Bremen, Ind., is handling the arrangements.