Rodney Bader

Rodney Gene Bader, 81, Bismarck, formerly of Garrison, began his heavenly journey and entered into eternal rest on Thursday, October 19, 2023, surrounded by his wife and loving family.

A celebration of Rodney’s Life service will be held at 11:00AM with visitation beginning an hour before on Wednesday, October 25, at Parkway Funeral Service, 2330 Tyler Parkway, Bismarck, Pastor Chad Englund officiating.

Interment to follow at the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery.

Rodney was born on January 26^th, 1942, to Emil and Irene (Jesser) Bader in Garrison ND. He was the oldest of five children raised on the Bader Farmstead east of Garrison. Rodney attended a one room schoolhouse near his home until 7^th grade.  He graduated from Garrison High school in 1959. He then joined the US Navy in 1961 and he transferred to the Fleet Marine Force until 1966.

Rodney was joined in marriage to Roberta (Bobbie) Muhlhauser on June 9^th, 1967, in Garrison ND. This marriage blessed them with four wonderful children. He later took over the family farm east of Garrison when his parents retired.

He was always known as a hard worker and didn’t like to be idle. He worked for many years in construction and structural steel. During his career he worked for Warner Construction, North Star Steel Construction, and most recently Height Construction. Rodney took great pride in the projects he worked on over the years. Throughout his career, he made many acquaintances whom he enjoyed running into and striking up a conversation.

During his free time and on weekends he loved helping his parents on the farm and later you could find him tinkering in his garage, helping Bobbie or his children with building projects.  

Rodney is survived by his wife of 56 years, Roberta Bader; children, Jody (Rob) Nelsen, William (Michelle) Bader, Brent (Carmen) Bader, Heather Tarang; six grandsons, Casey (Megan) Gullickson, Derek (Sam) Gullickson, Jacob (Brooke) Bader, Brandon (Kaylee) Bader, Maicen and Asher Tarang; one granddaughter, Brittany (Ian) Auck; seven great-grandchildren and siblings, Shirley Boots, Gary (Marilyn) Bader, Diane (Lyle) Peterson, Sherri (Tim) Vettel.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Emil and Irene Bader; beloved niece, Lori (Boots) Medal; grandparents and many aunts and uncles. As well as many friends, neighbors and fellow co-workers.

He loved his family and was very proud of his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Rodney will be greatly missed by many.