Robert J. Mader

Mader, Robert J. ("Bob") January 3, 1924-December 23, 2004 He fought the good fight, but his heart gave out. A native of Detroit, Michigan, Bob Mader resided in Torrance, California, for the past 45 years. He graduated from King's Point United States Merchant Marine Academy, and served in World War II and the Korean Campaign. He remained in the merchant marines until 1958.
He was exceptionally talented with his hands and was always building and designing something in his well-equipped shop. He became interested in designing golf putters and designed and manufactured a line of novelty putters such as pickle and hot dog putters, etc. That experience led him to a Santa Monica foundry where he developed the first investment-cast molds for golf irons. His personal line of clubs, "Confidence," changed the way golf irons were made and over 50 touring professionals used them in the L.A. Open when they were first introduced. Bob was a long-time member of Old Ranch Country Club in Seal Beach. His other great passion was for the "Lane Victory", a restored World War II victory ship, berthed in San Pedro at the World Cruise Center. Through the years he built over 30 ship models that are on display in the ship's museum. He was also active in the "Lane Victory" summer cruises. He is survived by one sister, Marion McCarthy, and two brothers, Bill and Dick Mader, and many nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held on the "Lane Victory" (310)519-9545 on January 19, 2005 at 11 A.M.