Philip L. Rader

Philip L Rader, age 89, died at his daughter’s home in Creston, CA on April 13, 2022. He was preceded in death by Molly, his wife of 57 years, an infant son Craig, and brothers David and Joel.

Phil graduated from Kent State University with a degree in aeronautical engineering. He served in the navy reserves during the Korean War. He moved his young family to California in 1957 and worked at Edwards Air Force Base developing solid rocket boosters that were eventually used to power the space shuttle. Phil worked hard at everything he did at home and work and at play. He liked to stay busy and finally retired at the age of 79 after being a building inspector for Monterrey county California for 10 years.

Phil was the oldest of 6 sons. Born to Charles and Alice (Shaw) Rader in Ashland Ohio. He was a motorcycle enthusiast and owned Rader’s Village Honda in Lebanon, Ohio. He raced enduros, motocross and ½ miles, as did his children. He enjoyed camping with his family and was an avid hunter and fisherman. He was always ready to try a new adventure. Family was very important to him and he was greatly loved by friends and family alike. He was quite a character and enjoyed sharing his humor and “pearls” of wisdom with all.

Phil is survived by 4 children: Heather (Jon Sherwood), Scott Rader, Kathy Knight and Brett Rader. Also 3 brothers, 10 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren and his faithful dog Gus.

Graveside service will be held at Savannah Cemetery in Savannah Ohio on Saturday October 8th at 1pm. Following the service, family and friends will celebrate his life at Freer field Ashland county parks visitor center at 1301 Park Street, Ashland, Ohio 44805. In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made to your local animal shelter.

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