Mary Alice Rader

Mary Alice Rader, age 94 of Osceola, passed away at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center of Mishawaka on July 1, 2023.   Mary was born February 23, 1929, in Mishawaka, Indiana to the late Albert J. and Matie M. (Losee) Strope. Mary was a graduate of Mishawaka High School, class of 1947 and on December 24, 1950, she married Carlton Rader.  They celebrated over 55 years of marriage before his passing on December 21, 2006.

She is survived by her children Dale Rader and his wife Cathy of Elkhart and Debbie Englebert and her husband Mike of Mishawaka, along with 7 grandchildren: Carrie (Jason) Landon, Dale Rader II, Erin (Koley) Gee, Kristin (Jacob Hershberger) Guzicki, Ryne Rader, Wesley (Stephanie) Wireman and Jeremy Wireman, along with her great grandchildren Blake (Renee) Landon, Cami (Riley) Lundy, Carly Landon, Macie Gee, Isabella Rader and Ally Rader, as well as her great-great grandchild Waylon Landon. Her sister-in-law, Shirley Strope of Mishawaka survives as well.   She was preceded in death by her siblings Richard “Dick” Strope, Gladys Marie Strope, Albert “Bert” Strope, Edgar “Hank” Strope and Velda Perkey.  Her son-in-law, Rick Guzicki preceded her in death in 2016.

Visitation will be held from 5-8 pm Wednesday, July 5, 2023, at Cruz Family Funeral Home in Osceola.  Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, July 6, 2023, at Cruz Family Funeral Home in Osceola with interment to follow in Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens.

Mary was a hardworking woman and was employed in the production department of Ball Band in Mishawaka. She later retired from the Ball Band sales room after 34 years and 9 months of service. In her spare time, she found joy in the art of gardening, and she patiently passed on her knowledge and green thumb to her children and grandchildren, ensuring that her legacy would bloom for generations to come. Being outdoors held a special place in Mary's heart, and she could often be seen sitting on a chair in her garage watching the world pass by. When winter weather kept her indoors, Mary stayed active by working word searches and doing puzzles.

Mary's faith was a guiding light throughout her life, and she was a longtime member of the Osceola Church of the Brethren (currently Shepherd’s Heart Fellowship Church). Her faith was a cornerstone of her character and influenced her interactions with others. Her heart for others was evident as she spent time as a volunteer at the Homeless Shelter on numerous occasions.  Above all else, Mary was a pillar of strength for her husband, Carl, during his illness. She lovingly cared for him, providing comfort in his time of need. Mary's commitment and dedication as a wife were truly exceptional, and as a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, she poured her heart and soul into her family. Her warmth, wisdom, and gentle guidance will be greatly missed, but her legacy of love will endure forever.

In her memory, donations may be made to Riley’s Hospital for Children.  To light a virtual candle, share a story of her life, or leave a message of comfort for her family, please follow the links provided on the tribute wall tab above.