Obituary for Stephen "Steve" Rhines
Rhines, Stephen Allen (“Steve”)
It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Stephen Allen Rhines, 69, on Tuesday, April 11, 2023 at Ed’s House in Cobourg, ON, after a fast and furious battle with ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s disease). Steve was diagnosed with ALS on March 15, 2023 and he faced the reality of memento mori with grace, humour and calm acceptance.
Loving and dedicated father of Meredith Francis, and step - father of the late Ed Francis. Loving and patient grandpa of Nathan Francis. Beloved brother of Raymond Rhines (Irene), and the late Ronald Rhines, and Peggy Sanders. Cherished uncle to many nieces and nephews.
Steve enjoyed life to its fullest: sailing, motorcycling, conspiracy theories, blues music, movies and napping (whenever he got the chance!) and he never lost his passion for food, cooking and licorice Allsorts. He had several careers during his lifetime, including land surveyor, security guard and two-time business owner. He had a story to tell about every subject.
Steve was a long-time member of the Port Hope Yacht Club and had the honour of holding the position of Treasurer for the duration of his membership, as well as Commodore in 2016 when the flags were lowered during a Sunset Ceremony to commemorate the close of the Club. His last sailboat was a Catalina 27 and was named N8, a nod to his grandson, Nathan, (see “N8, The Story in a Name” below). Many hours were spent on that sailboat, every single one of them wonderful.
As a seasoned sailor and design enthusiast, Steve started a new business in 2015 specializing in sail and canvas repair and winter storage, N8 Sail & Canvas, and he continued to design and create custom bags and accessories until ALS took his mobility this past winter.
Steve will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him: he left his imprint on many a heart, and his stories, random texts, sense of humour and sarcastic wit will always be remembered fondly and with love by many.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Steve’s life on Sunday, April 23rd from 1pm until the time of the memorial at 2pm (venue details to follow). Everyone is welcomed and encouraged to share their stories.
Memorial donations to Ed’s House would be appreciated and may be received at www.rossfuneralchapel.com
It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Stephen Allen Rhines, 69, on Tuesday, April 11, 2023 at Ed’s House in Cobourg, ON, after a fast and furious battle with ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s disease). Steve was diagnosed with ALS on March 15, 2023 and he faced the reality of memento mori with grace, humour and calm acceptance.
Loving and dedicated father of Meredith Francis, and step - father of the late Ed Francis. Loving and patient grandpa of Nathan Francis. Beloved brother of Raymond Rhines (Irene), and the late Ronald Rhines, and Peggy Sanders. Cherished uncle to many nieces and nephews.
Steve enjoyed life to its fullest: sailing, motorcycling, conspiracy theories, blues music, movies and napping (whenever he got the chance!) and he never lost his passion for food, cooking and licorice Allsorts. He had several careers during his lifetime, including land surveyor, security guard and two-time business owner. He had a story to tell about every subject.
Steve was a long-time member of the Port Hope Yacht Club and had the honour of holding the position of Treasurer for the duration of his membership, as well as Commodore in 2016 when the flags were lowered during a Sunset Ceremony to commemorate the close of the Club. His last sailboat was a Catalina 27 and was named N8, a nod to his grandson, Nathan, (see “N8, The Story in a Name” below). Many hours were spent on that sailboat, every single one of them wonderful.
As a seasoned sailor and design enthusiast, Steve started a new business in 2015 specializing in sail and canvas repair and winter storage, N8 Sail & Canvas, and he continued to design and create custom bags and accessories until ALS took his mobility this past winter.
Steve will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him: he left his imprint on many a heart, and his stories, random texts, sense of humour and sarcastic wit will always be remembered fondly and with love by many.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Steve’s life on Sunday, April 23rd from 1pm until the time of the memorial at 2pm (venue details to follow). Everyone is welcomed and encouraged to share their stories.
Memorial donations to Ed’s House would be appreciated and may be received at www.rossfuneralchapel.com