Richard H. Strader

Richard Howard Strader, known to friends as “Dick,” passed away on February 20, 2024.  Born on the 21st of November 1940, to Lester and Lucile (Wickett) Strader, in Cincinnati, OH.  Dick's 83 years were marked by artistry, service to others, and living out his faith.

As an esteemed educator, Dick shaped young minds as an Elementary and Middle School Teacher, a Library Media Specialist, and later as a cherished Children's Librarian at Willard Library in Battle Creek. Dick was instrumental in the development of Marshall Middle School’s award winning Learning Resource Center, which served as a model for state educators. Countless students were influenced by his talents.

Known beyond his local community, Dick's reputation as a masterful storyteller brought laughter and inspiration to many far and wide. He was also a mentor to other storytellers, serving on the board of Northlands Storytelling Network and leading workshops for the Mosaic Storytelling Showcase.  He hosted numerous nationally known storytellers and authors in his home and in the schools.

In addition to storytelling, Dick had a flair for dramatic theater.  From high school and college, to the Marshall Civic theater,  he starred in many theatrical productions including Pippin, Mame, Shenandoah, 1776, and Godspell. Later, he directed the children’s production of The Best Christmas Pageant Ever.  He combined his storytelling, theater and literature appreciation with lively portrayals of Uncle Jonathan at the house which author John Bellairs used as inspiration for the book, The House With a Clock in its Walls, for area students and community groups.

Dick's devotion extended to his spiritual life as well. He was a committed member of the United Methodist Church of Marshall and later the First Congregational Church of Battle Creek, where he served with a passion for social justice and peace, and where his artistry in altar displays was evident to all who attended.

He is lovingly remembered by his family: children Eric and Laura Strader of Plainwell, Michigan, Leanne and Tim Kreps of Bridgewater, VA; his sister Joyce Whitted of Chandler, AZ; and his grandchildren Josie and Calvin Strader, and Libby and Andrew Kreps. His beloved wife of 53 years, Veroneze Kellogg Strader, preceded him in death in 2019.

A service honoring Dick's life will be held on Saturday, March 9th, at the First Congregational Church of Battle Creek. Visitation with the family will start at 11:00 AM, with the memorial service following at 12:00 PM.  A luncheon for friends and family will directly follow the service.  Feel free to bring an optional memory to share or a token object to represent Dick.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to the South Michigan Food Bank of Battle Creek or to the United Methodist Church Reconciling Ministries. Dick will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his memory and legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched.

Messages of condolence may be posted at www.WinkelFuneralHome.com.