John Rader, 58

John Rader “passed on from this life to the next” on June 13, 2017, from recurrent glioblastoma multiforme (brain cancer).

He was born to Robert and Janice Rader in the summer of 1958 in Detroit. The second of two children, he moved with his family to Billings as a child where he built lifelong friendships. Many happy memories were formed growing up in the shadow of the Rimrocks and attending local schools. Always involved, he graduated from Billings West in 1976 as senior class president. After high school he attended Montana State University, graduating with honors in electrical engineering. Through club involvement there he also met his beloved wife, Beth, with whom he recently celebrated 35 years of marriage. Following job opportunities, they made their home in Colorado Springs, Colorado, for many years, adding four children to their family along the way. When the timing was right they returned to Montana, making their home in the Flathead Valley where he appreciated being back in his home state, making more friends along the way.

Most recently, John and Beth have made their home in Butte where he was an active member of the Holy Trinity Orthodox Christian Church. John’s latest employment was with NorthWestern Energy in Butte where he enjoyed the work and especially his co-workers. Throughout his life John was a devoted and loving family man, faithful to his friends, dedicated to his work, and a servant of God. May his memory be eternal.

John was preceded in death by his parents.

John is survived by his wife, Beth; his children, Janice (Peter) Lucon, Emily (Lukas) Fencl, Bob (Julia) Rader, and Tom Rader; sister, Donna (Dave) Gaarder; five grandchildren; and many treasured extended family and friends.

A special thanks to everyone around the state for their concerns, prayers and cards. The family also wishes to thank all the wonderful doctors and their staff who provided excellent care for John over the past two years and the recent care provided by Highlands Hospice.

Services will be held at the Holy Trinity Serbian Orthodox Church. Visitation will begin at 5 p.m. Sunday, June 18, followed by an evening prayer service at 6 p.m. The funeral service will take place at the church at 10 a.m. Monday, June 19. Interment will follow at Mountain View Cemetery.

Memorials are suggested to the Holy Trinity Orthodox Church.

The Beatitudes, Matthew 5:1-12

Blessed are the poor in spirit,

For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Blessed are those who mourn,

For they shall be comforted.

Blessed are the meek,

For they shall inherit the earth.

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst after righteousness,

For they shall be filled.

Blessed are the merciful,

For they shall obtain mercy.

Blessed are the pure in heart,

For they shall see God.

Blessed are the peace makers,

For they shall be called the sons of God.

Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake,

For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Blessed are you when men shall revile you and persecute you and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely for my sake.

Rejoice and be exceedingly glad for great is your reward in heaven.