Harold Rhoads, 88 from New Town, North Dakota died Friday November 13th, 2020 at a Minot, ND nursing facility.

Harold, better known as "Dusty" was born July 21st, 1932 in Hurdsfield, ND to Harold Sr. and Sybil Rhoads. He was raised in Hurdsfield ND and attended school there.

Harold enlisted in the Naval Reserves on July 17th, 1951 and entered active duty November 2, 1951. Upon graduating boot camp he was assigned to the USS New Jersey BB-62 where he achieved the rank of GMM3. Harold's decorations included the Navy Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal, Navy Occupation service Medal, China Service medal and the United Nations Service Medal. After being discharged from active duty in 1955, Harold remained in the Naval Reserves until July 1959.

Harold married Joy Rauser of Hurdsfield ND on November 20th, 1955. Early after they were married they moved to the Amerada Oil Camp in Charleston, ND where Harold began a 40 year career with Amerada (Later Hess) oil company. In 1975 Harold and Joy moved to New Town, ND where Harold and Joy operated the New Town Marina as well.

After Joy's death Harold continued to manage the Marina until he was 80 years old. Harold always prided himself on being a hard working man and his many years in the oil patch and at the Marina was evidence of that.

Harold was a long time member of the New Town Baptist Church and a lifetime member of the American Legion. He spent many years volunteering for the New Town Ambulance. He also played Santa Claus for the New Town Chamber of Commerce for over 38 years visiting children at various locations. He also was Santa in the New Town Parade of Lights.

Harold's family includes his son Richard (Kristi) Rhoads of Colorado, daughter Vicki (Steve) Tschannen of Minot; nine grandchildren, Tricia, Tiffany, Jeremy, Joel, Heather (deceased), Jennifer, Jana, Jaime and Sara; 26 great grandchildren and three great great grandchildren; sister Mary (Alvin) Braungel Bismarck ND, Brother in law Jim (Loyce) Rauser, Williston ND and Donna Rauser, Watford City ND and many, many nieces and nephews.

Harold was preceded in death by his wife Joy, sister Carmen Wollman and brother Luther Rhoads.

Memorial Contribution