d. Dec. 18, 2024
Arthur John Bader, 91, of Bonita Springs, Florida, passed away peacefully on Dec. 18, 2024, with his wife, Carol, by his side.
Art was devoted to his faith, his family, and his community. He loved sailing, camping, reading, and making people laugh. Art was passionate about sharing his Christian faith, offering encouragement, and being a friend to all.
He served in the Navy for eight years before becoming a Corporate Professional Engineer at Caterpillar, Inc. in Peoria, Illinois, where he helped design new facilities worldwide. Art earned a degree in civil engineering from the University of Illinois and a Master’s in Engineering Administration from Bradley University.
Art was an active volunteer, serving as a scout master, directing “Walk for Mankind,” and traveling to serve the less fortunate in poverty-stricken countries. After retiring from Caterpillar, he and Carol spent years traveling and volunteering at Christian camps across the U.S. before settling in Bonita Springs, Florida, with a second home in Batavia, Illinois.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Dorothy Bader, his brother, Ronald, and his first wife, Norma Bader.
Art is survived by his wife, Carol; Sister Evelyn “Cookie” Bader, sister-in-law Connie Bader, children Scott (Heidi), Elizabeth (Jordon Grunow), Mark (Shelly) Stafford, and Cynthia Stafford; grandchildren Betsy, Hannah, Justus, Marika, Jacob, Jessica, Bryce, Caleb, Breanna, Cameron, Brendyn, Mikayla, and Tanner; and five great-grandchildren, Juniper, Iris, Eva, Elio, and Callyn.
Art’s legacy is his deep faith and love for his family. His final wish was for his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren to know Jesus Christ.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, Jan. 11, 2025 at Summit Church, 15220 Tamiami Trail N, Naples, FL 34110. Memorial contributions may be made to Samaritan’s Purse.
