Racine – Donald Ray Vader; age 81; passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday afternoon, September 12, 2015.
Donald was born in Eau Claire, WI on September 2, 1934 to the late Melvin and Myrtle (nee: Sylvester) Vader. Following graduation from Eau Claire High School, he went on to earn his business administration degree from University of Wisconsin – Madison. Donald faithfully served our country in the United States Army during the Korean War.
On August 29, 1957 at Grace Lutheran Church in Eau Claire, Don was united in marriage with the love of his life, Pauline Marie (nee: Jacobson) Vader. He was employed as a traffic manager with various transportation companies throughout his career.
Don was a member of Atonement Lutheran Church, Traffic Club of Racine and was an active volunteer for the Veterans Administration. Among his interests, he enjoyed archery, golfing, dart ball and was an avid coin collector.
Surviving are his loving wife of over 58 years, Pauline; their daughter, Susan Grabner (Patrick Kelly); and cherished grandsons, Brian and Kevin Grabner; brother, Eugene (Patricia) Vader; sisters-in-law, June Vader, Barbara Schmitt, Janet (Ken) Fremstad, Nancy (Roger) Orlady and Sonnie Jacobson; brother-in-law, David Jacobson; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
In addition to his parents, Don was preceded in death by his brother, Ronald Vader; sisters-in-law, Carol and Jean Jacobson; brothers-in-law, Frederick Schmitt and Gerald Jacobson; and by Pauline’s parents, James and Clara (nee: Smeland) Jacobson.
Funeral services will be held in Atonement Lutheran Church, 2915 Wright Avenue, on Friday, September 18, 2015 at 11:00 am with Rev. Denise Mbise officiating. Interment, with military honors, will follow in Graceland Cemetery. Visitation will be in the church on Friday from 9:00 – 11:00 am.
A special note of thanks to Seasons Hospice and to our wonderful caregiver, Coach, for the compassionate care and support given in Don’s time of need. May God bless all of you!
Jan Phelps says
Sending my condolences to the family.
Karen Scott says
So sorry for your loss. At least we can take comfort in knowing the pain is gone and your loved one has gone to a much better place. And in knowing that eventually in God’s good time we will all be reunited once again.