William E. Trader

William E. Trader, 86, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 14, 2025, at his daughter's home under the care of Gentiva Hospice. He was surrounded by the love of his family during his final days.

Bill was born on November 22, 1938, in Folsom, West Virginia, to Audra Avis Trader. Tragically, Bill lost his mother at the tender age of two, and he was lovingly raised by his grandparents, George Dewey and Florence (Edgell) Trader. His early years were spent at the West Virginia School for the Deaf and Blind in Romney, where he formed lifelong friendships and developed a deep connection to the Deaf community.

It was during a visit to Ohio that Bill’s life took a fateful turn. He met Judith A. Trader at a social club for the Deaf. Their connection was immediate, and they were married on August 26, 1967. Bill and Judie made their home in Bucyrus, where they shared a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories until Judie’s passing on January 12, 2024.

Bill’s warmth, kindness, and infectious smile were the hallmarks of his character. He was a dedicated husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who found immense joy in being surrounded by his family. He especially loved attending the many events of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, always eager to support and cheer them on.

In his working years, Bill’s career was marked by versatility and dedication. He started out working for a lumber company and a printing business in West Virginia before making a lasting impact at the Marion Star. Bill later worked in maintenance for the Bucyrus City Schools, ITT Electric in Galion, and concluded his career in maintenance at Bucyrus Walmart. His work ethic and commitment to helping others left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Outside of work, Bill had a variety of interests that brought him joy. He loved the outdoors, particularly hunting and fishing, where he made countless memories with family and friends. He was also an accomplished woodworker, crafting beautiful, handmade gifts that touched the hearts of those lucky enough to receive them. Bill’s love for sports, especially OSU football and basketball, was unwavering, but his roots in West Virginia remained strong. Bill was also an active member of the Mansfield Deaf Club and regularly attended the Lutheran Church for the Deaf, where he was surrounded by a supportive community.

Bill is survived by his two children, Jennifer (Charles Johns) Trader Haines and Jeffrey (Marilyn) Trader; seven grandchildren, Katelyn (Joshua) Colborn, Jeremiah (Courtney Powell) Haines, Zachary Haines, Amelia (Thomas) Lewis, Mackenzie Haines, Cecilia Trader, and Eliana Trader; six great-grandchildren; his sister in law, Mary Jo Seif; and several nieces who will all miss him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Judith; his grandparents George Dewey and Florence (Edgell) Trader; aunts and uncles, Garland and Alice Pearl Young; Dale Trader; Dorman Trader, Lucy Lough, and Jaunita Sola.

Services will be held on Saturday, September 27 at Wise Funeral Service in Bucyrus. Family will receive friends from 12-1:55 pm and the funeral service will begin at 2:00 pm with Pastor Dreama Caudill officiating. An interpreter will be present for all services to ensure that Bill’s Deaf community can fully participate in the celebration of his life. Bill will be laid to rest in Oakwood Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests memorial contributions can be made payable to Carrie Berlin for The Education Service Center Deaf and Hard of Hearing Program, a K-12 program in a mainstream setting that has full access to teachers of the Deaf and educational interpreters. The program meets students where they are and walks with students and families to ensure happy, high quality Deaf and Hard of Hearing adults for our communities. Contributions can be made through the funeral home.

The Trader family will cherish the kind words, memories, and photos shared on the guestbook of Bill’s tribute page at www.wisefuneral.com.