John R. Rader

John Russell Rader, age 84, of Lancaster, passed away on Wednesday, October 2, 2013, at Mercy Medical Center in Dubuque, IA. He was born on September 3, 1929, in LaCrosse, the son of Russell and Helen (Wing) Rader. John graduated from Central High School in 1947. Following his graduation, he enlisted in the United States Air Force where he served his country in the occupation of Japan until his honorable discharge. After his honorable discharge, John attended LaCrosse Technical College to become a Draftsman. He was employed at Trane Air Conditioning in LaCrosse. On June 28, 1952, John was united in marriage to Jacqueline V. Thiele in LaCrosse. After their marriage, the couple moved to Cedar Rapids, IA, where he was employed with Rockwell Collins Radio until his retirement. John and Jackie moved to Lancaster in 2002. He was a member of the Lancaster Congregational Church. John enjoyed planes, automobiles, and trains. He loved books, music and woodworking.

Survivors include his wife, Jackie, Lancaster; their children: Michael (Cindy) Rader, Nisswa, MN; Mary (Issa) Handal, Lancaster; three grandchildren: Derek (Kaitlyn) Rader, Iowa City, IA; Daren (Emily) Rader, Breezy Point, MN; Hannah Handal, Madison; one sister, Jane (George) Ruediger, Green Bay; other relatives and many friends.

In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by a son, Mark Russell Rader and a granddaughter, Heidi Margret Handal.

Memorial services were held on Friday, October 4, 2013, at 11:00 a.m. at the Lancaster Congregational Church with Reverend Mark Dieter officiating. Private family burial with military honors will be held in Hillside Cemetery, Lancaster. Family and friends called on Friday, October 4, 2013, from 9:30 a.m. until time of services at the church. Schwartz Funeral Home & Cremation Services is assisting the family.