Arthur John Bader Jr.

Art’s greatest loves were Jesus, his wife Carol, and his family. He enjoyed sailing, camping, reading, working with computers, and making people laugh. Art was a “seed planter” who shared his faith with others, offering encouragement, a helping hand, or simply taking the time to be a friend. He was a constant source of support to both his family and friends.

Art served in the Navy for eight years before pursuing his professional career. He was a Corporate Professional Engineer at Caterpillar, Inc. in Peoria, Illinois, where he helped design new facilities for the company worldwide.

Born on the north side of Chicago to Arthur and Dorothy Bader, Art was a graduate of the University of Illinois with a degree in civil engineering. He later earned a Master’s in Engineering Administration from Bradley University in Peoria.

Art was deeply invested in the lives of young people, serving as a scout master and as a director for “Walk for Mankind.” He traveled to poverty-stricken countries to serve and encourage the less fortunate.

After 30 years with Caterpillar, Art and Carol sold their home, moved into an RV, and began traveling out West and across Canada. During their travels, they spent many summers volunteering at Christian camps across the United States. Eventually, they made their home in Bonita Springs, FL, and also maintained a home in Batavia, IL.

Art was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Dorothy Bader, his brother, Ronald, and his first wife, Norma Bader.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Carol; his sister, Evelyn Bader, sister-in-law, Connie Bader, his children Scott (Heidi), Elizabeth (Jordon Grunow) Bader, Mark (Shelly) Stafford, and Cynthia Stafford; his grandchildren Betsy, Hannah, Justus, Marika, Jacob, Jessica, Bryce, Caleb, Breanna, Cameron, Brendyn, Mikayla, and Tanner; and five great-grandchildren, Juniper, Iris, Eva, Elio, and Callyn.

Art desired to be remembered as a follower of Christ and as His Ambassador. His final wish was for all his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren to come to a saving faith in Jesus Christ.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, January 11th at Summit Church, 15220 Tamiami Trail N, Naples, FL 34110.

Memorial contributions in memory of Art may be made to Samaritan's Purse. Please call directly at 828-262-1980 and specify that the contribution is in memory of Art Bader.