Raymond "Ray" R. Bader, 81, New Leipzig, died June 30, 2007 in Portland, Oregon from complications following heart surgery. Services will be held Monday, July 9th, at 10:30A.M. MDT at Immanuel Lutheran Church, New Leipzig with Rev. John Amundson officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will be Sunday, July 8th, from 1:00-5:30P.M. at the Evanson-Jensen Funeral Home in Elgin, and again one hour before services at Immanuel Lutheran Church on Monday.


Ray was born in 1926 and lived his entire life in New Leipzig. He attended school there and was very active in a variety of sports. After graduation from high school in 1944, he enlisted in the United States Navy in order to serve his country during WWII. Upon his return in 1946, he attended Dakota Business School in Fargo. Although Ray longed for the opportunity to get an education, he was called back home to work in the family implement business. He joined the business in 1946 and managed Bader Implement with his brother until his retirement in 1987.

Family has always been the center of Ray's life. On August 20, 1950, Ray married the love of his life, Darlene Beck. They were married for 45 years until her death in 1996. They had many treasured years together, enjoying the raising of their own children and then watching seven grandchildren grow up as well. Ray was a very proud grandfather who took keen interest in his grandchildrens' lives, making special trips to watch them as they participated in numerous activities, applauding their endeavors. He also loved spending time with his siblings, with whom he maintained a close connection. He shared a special bond with his sister, Alma, with whom he visited daily.


Ray cared deeply about his church and the community. His leadership, and the values he demonstrated, were respected by all who knew him. He has been a lifelong, confirmed member of Immanual Lutheran Church. He was a member of the American Legion and the Commercial Club. Over the years Ray participated on numerous civic committees and the church council. Ray, along with wife Darlene, helped to organize the first New Leipzig Oktoberfest. Thirty-six years later it continues to be a successful, annual event.

Ray loved to be active and spent every day of his life pursuing a healthy lifestyle. In his earlier years he jogged regularly, then later becoming a "walker". He frequently mentioned his love of the early morning stillness and peace as he took his daily walk in the country.

Upon retirement, Ray became an avid golfer. In the winter when he could no longer golf in North Dakota, he ventured to warmer climates. For many years he and Darlene traveled to New Mexico to enjoy the golfing opportunities there. Hunting and fishing were life long hobbies for Ray. Each year he would look forward to an annual June fishing trip with his sons and friends near Spokane, Washington. In the fall, he and family would walk the prairies in search of pheasants, always accompanied by his life long hunting and fishing buddy Almore Hertz. This past February he enjoyed time in Palm Springs with family members and friends.

Ray was a kind, caring person who showed great interest in others. His contagious smile and genuine love for people made everyone around him feel important. Ray loved a good conversation whether it be with family or friends. "Morning coffee with the guys," followed by delivering the mail to friends, was part of his current daily routine. Ray, affectionately known as "Gimpy" to his grandchildren, will be deeply missed by his family, friends and the community of New Leipzig.

Ray is survived by his daughter, Jocelyn and son-in-law Lou Libby; two sons, Craig and Steve and daughters-in-law Diane and Jan; seven grandchildren, Ken, Mike and Katie Libby; Amanda and Seth Norell Bader; Sarah and Ian Bader; brothers Robert Bader (Verletta) Meinhardt Bader (Delores); sisters Alma Mueller and Elaine Hanson (Harry). He was preceded in death by his wife, Darlene; parents, John and Julia; brother, Marvin; and brother-in-law, Reiny Mueller.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Perpetual Cemetery Fund at Immanuel Lutheran Church in New Leipzig.