Walter Lee Bader

Walter Lee Bader, 94 of Baltimore, went to be with our Lord on August 8, 2024. He was born to the late Troy and Clara Bader of Carroll. Walter was the father of three sons Steve (Debbie), Greg (Diane), and Randy (Tammy). He enjoyed spending time with his 9 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren. He sadly leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and friends. He was preceded in death by his devoted wife, JoAnn Miller Bader with 68 years of marriage. Grandson, Randy Jr.; brother, Carl; sisters, Dorothy, Miriam, and Francis. Walter graduated from Carroll High School in 1947 and that summer he agreed to farm the McCleery’s land, which was a life-changing decision. He married the “Woman of his dreams,” JoAnn Miller in 1953 and a year later he was drafted into the Army. Upon his return, he moved forward with purchasing the McCleery farm of where he happily lived for the next 67 years of his life. He was a life-long, dedicated member of Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Lancaster. He served on many church committees as well as teaching Sunday school. Walter was an accomplished, well-respected individual that earned numerous acknowledgments and awards throughout his life. He was named “Outstanding Young Farmer of Ohio, 10 year member of the Fairfield County ASC Committee, on the Landmark Board of Directors, Liberty Union School Board member, Columbus Dispatch’s “Blue Ribbon Farm Family,” served on the Liberty Township Zoning Board, and the Producers Livestock Board of Directors. Walter took great pride in being the Cloverleaf Livestock 4-H Club Advisor for 60 years. His flower beds were filled with gorgeous Vincas, enormous sunflowers and several birdhouses to attract countless Cardinals. He will be infinitely missed as we remember the work ethic he displayed daily being a dedicated farmer. We will miss the ever present flannels, white t-shirts, John Deere hats when he drove his ‘49 John Deere A, delivered his home grown sweet corn and tomatoes to neighbors and friends. Walter always said, “I know that the Lord God has bestowed many Blessings on our family. A farmer really depends on God. I thank God for JoAnn.” A funeral service will take place on Wednesday August 14, 2024 at 10:30 AM with viewing one hour prior to the start of the service at Emanuel Lutheran Church, officiated by Pastor Mark Raddatz. Burial will follow the service at Greenfield Township Cemetery, Carroll. Calling hours at Halteman-Fett & Dyer Funeral Home, Lancaster, for family and friends will be on Tuesday August 13, 2024 form 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 PM. Memorials may be given to Fairhope Hospice, 282 Sells Rd, Lancaster, OH 43130 Lancaster.