Frank S. Bader

Frank S. Bader, a cherished pillar of family and community, transitioned peacefully from this life on February 21, 2025, at the Kansas City Hospice House, leaving behind a legacy brimming with love, achievement, and unity. Born on May 3, 1938, in the vibrant city of Kansas City, Missouri, he was the beloved son of Frank and Mary Vernon Bader. His life, spanning 86 remarkable years, was marked by dedication, unwavering spirit, and a deep commitment to those he loved.

On a beautiful day, marked by joyous celebration, Frank wed the love of his life, Annette Weixeldorfor, on August 21, 1965, in Guardian Angels Catholic Church. This union was the beginning of a beautiful journey of partnership that endured for six extraordinary decades. Together, they built a home filled with warmth and laughter, nurturing their eight children—Steve Bader (Laura), Lisa Bader, Laurie Taylor (Brian), Mary Kay Bader, Janet Bader, Joanna Bader (Jocelyn Richards), Sharon Bader (Melissa Surber), and Matthew Bader (Stevie)—who carry forward their parents’ legacy of love and devotion.

Throughout his distinguished career as a civil engineer, Frank made significant contributions to the infrastructure of his community. He dedicated many years of service to the Corps of Engineers, where his expertise was instrumental in the successful completion of the Longview Dam in 1985. This vital project, part of the Little Blue River Project authorized by Congress in 1968, gave birth to the expansive Longview Lake—a 930-acre oasis for recreation that now stands as a testament to his hard work and vision.

Frank and Annette were active and devoted members of Our Lady of Coronation Catholic Church in Grandview, Missouri, where they cultivated deep-rooted friendships and shared their faith with a warm and welcoming spirit. Their family, a vibrant tapestry woven with the threads of countless memories, includes grandchildren—Rachel, Jake, Sam, Allison (Chris), Zach (Mandi), Oakley, Grayson, and Harrison—and great-grandchildren Nash and Willow, who brought immense joy to Frank's heart.

Frank’s cherished brother, Larry Bader (Doris), along with dear nieces and nephews, will also remember him fondly, each holding a piece of his legacy in their hearts.

As we gather to commemorate the life of Frank S. Bader, whose presence was both grounding and uplifting, we are reminded of the importance of family, the joy found in hard work, and the lasting impact of a life well-lived. His spirit will undoubtedly continue to resonate through the lives of all who were fortunate enough to know and love him.

As we bid farewell to Frank, we do so with hearts full of gratitude for the time we had with him, each moment a precious reminder of his profound influence in our lives.