Charles Rader

Charles Wesley Rader, 85, of Mansfield, died Monday, February 21, 2005 at Mifflin Care Center after an extended illness. Born September 9, 1919 in Conequenessing, Pennsylvania, he was the son of Phillip and Amelia Spithaler Rader. He served in the United States Army Air Corps during World War II. Mr. Rader graduated from Bible Baptist Seminary of Fort Worth, Texas and he and his family came to Mansfield March 30, 1951 as founding pastor of the Mansfield Baptist Temple. In 1982, he retired from Empire-Detroit Steel. He was an avid gardener, enjoyed sports, music, and loved all of his grandchildren.

He is survived by one son and daughter-in-law, Richard 'Dick' and Pat Rader of Mansfield; one daughter and son-in-law, Margaret 'Peg' and John Robert Hickman of Tallmadge; four grandchildren, Rich and Tiffany Rader, Bob and Lisa Hickman, Pam and Brian Keel, and Debbie and Scott Dumire; nine great-grandchildren, Caroline and Andrea Hickman, Emma, Abby, Kevin and Nate Keel, Tyler, Shelby, and Travis Dumire; one sister, Erma Rader of Butler, Pennsylvania; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death on April 2, 2004 by his wife, Ellen Jane Rader, whom he married December 27, 1940; one son, James L. Rader, who died October 24, 1995; and one brother, Delmar Rader.

Friends may call from 5 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, February 23, 2005 at the Ontario Home of Wappner Funeral Directors. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home with Rev. Rich Rader officiating. Military graveside services will follow in Mansfield Memorial Park. Memorial contributions may be made to Warriors of L.I.G.H.T.