Rader, who retired from Ohio University in 1999 with 22 years of service, was well-known in the field of teacher education. During his tenure, he served in many capacities, including director of the Center for Economic Education, director of the School of Curriculum and Instruction, and assistant to the dean of the College of Education.
 
“I remember Bill as being especially enthusiastic in his support of assistant and associate level faculty,” said Ralph Martin, professor of teacher education. “In his positions as assistant dean and chair of the School of Curriculum and Instruction, he worked diligently
to remove barriers and to obtain support that would help junior faculty establish productive careers. He was deeply committed to Ohio University and did all that was possible to help junior faculty to develop their own long- standing commitments to a university that he truly loved and the faculty that he respected.”

Bill Smith, interim director of the Curriculum and Technology Center, said, “As a new faculty member, Bill helped me to develop my research agenda and learn the ropes of the College. He was dedicated to the program and the field of Teacher Education, and he would always go the extra mile to help faculty establish themselves within the profession. He was a dear friend who will be missed by many.”

Rader received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in social sciences from Northern Illinois University, and his doctorate in economics/education from Purdue University.

Prior to joining Ohio University, he held positions at Florida State University, Northeastern Illinois University, and Morton (Ill.) College.

Rader is survived by his wife Mary, his son Steven, and his daughter Lucy, who is a current student in the college’s educational administration doctoral program.

Calling hours will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 13, at Hughes-Moquin Funeral Home, 168 Morris Ave., Athens, Ohio. A vigil will begin at 5 p.m. The funeral will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 14, at Christ The King Catholic Church, 75 Stewart St., Athens,
Ohio. Rader will be buried in Mount Calvary Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to: Vincent dePaul Food Pantry, c/o Christ The King Catholic Church, 75 Stewart Street, Athens, Ohio 45701.

If you would like to leave a condolence message please use the condolence form available through Hughes-Moquin Funeral Home.