Milton E Strader

February 19, 1947 – February 28, 2021

“I’ve had a great life, no regrets.” These were Milt’s last words and so reflected his outlook on life – always strong and positive through all life’s ups and downs. Wherever he went Milt made fast friends. Notes from many after hearing of his death recall the passion and energy he exuded, his great laugh, his warmth and sincerity, the influence he had on their lives, and especially his love and devotion to his godchildren and the many young people in his life.

Milt loved giving back. His willingness to always show up and get involved was a great strength. He served on the board of the YMCA’s Urban Services, for many years was a Junior Achievement advisor and, after receiving a kidney from his sister 17 years ago, became deeply involved in the world of organ transplantation. He worked with and supported the local Kidney Foundation chapter, Team MO-KAN, Lyric of Life and especially Gift of Life, where he made presentations to local high school students to educate them about the importance of organ donation.

Born and raised in Aurora CO, Milt graduated from the University of Colorado and got his MBA at Northwestern University. He was recruited off the CU campus by Hallmark Cards where he started as a Research Field Rep in Chicago (‘counting cards’, as Milt liked to say). While in Chicago he met his future wife and love of his life, Anne Palans. They later moved to Hallmark’s corporate offices in Kansas City where Milt worked in Product Management and later New Product Development. After leaving Hallmark in 1990, he and Anne bought Welco Manufacturing Co., a home improvement products company in North Kansas City.

Milt will be missed by everyone who knew him. His longstanding golf and poker groups will sorely miss his buoyant and inexhaustible spirit, his passion for life, and his unique character.

Milt is survived by his wife, Anne, his sister and brother-in-law, Peggy and Dan Olson of Perrysburg Ohio and his nephews and their families, Darin Olson, Atlanta and Darik Olson, Tampa.

A memorial service will be planned for this summer. Service information will be found at www.mcgilleymidtownchapel.com; also where condolences and fond memories may be shared.

For donations in Milt’s memory, we suggest Gift of Life - https://giftdonor.org/.