Harry L. Strader, Jr.

Harry L. Strader, Jr., 87, of Topeka, passed away from this life to his eternal home on Monday, December 9, 2024 at Midland Hospice House.

He was born October 11, 1937, in Sedalia, Missouri, the son of Harry Strader, Sr. and Edna (Scott) Strader-Kastner. He graduated from Excelsior Springs High School. Harry later attended the University of Missouri and earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts. 

He married Darlene Hartner-Turner on May 1, 1976 in Topeka, Kansas. 

Harry had a prosperous career in TV Broadcast, working in several city TV stations. He was instrumental in starting the NBC Channel 27 here in Topeka from the ground. His favorite Broadcast station that he worked at was KOWA Denver. He also went to Amarillo, TX and Evansville, IN working in other stations before his retirement. After retirement, he moved back to Topeka. 

He was a faithful member for over 20 years at Faith Lutheran Church, of Topeka. Harry and Darlene started a small group bible study and they enjoyed their time of study. Harry also made sure to fill the candles at the church to ensure they were ready for every Sunday service. He loved his Lord and is now at peace with Him. 

One of Harry’s passions was to give back to his community. He volunteered with the American Red Cross and served as Board President. In addition to his helpfulness at the Red Cross, he also dedicated time to the United Way and served meals with Midland Hospice. 

Harry enjoyed getting out and playing a round of golf and his best partner was Darlene. He also enjoyed watching NASCAR and collecting Diecast cars. He was a master gardener when it came to tomatoes, but it always had to be Jet Stars. Harry enjoyed skiing and took the family on trips to the slopes. 

Survivors include his wife, Darlene Hartner-Strader; three children, David (Cathy Gibson) Strader of Placitas, NM, Anne (Nat Brown) Strader of Cedar Crest, NM and Mary (Nate Cost) Strader of Germany; three step-children, Quail (Doug) Turner-Lowe of Melvern, Ks, Gwin (David) Turner- Buhler of Topeka and Kim Turner of Topeka; his beloved grandchildren, Joshua, Kier, Liam, Ashley, Lexi, Amber, Jerret, Chelsea, Emily, and Bradley and eight great-grandchildren; brother, Tom Strader of Kansas City, KS.  He was preceded in death by parents.

A Funeral Ceremony will be held at 11:00 am., Friday, December 20, 2024 at Faith Lutheran Church, 1716 SW Gage Blvd., Topeka. His family will greet relatives and friends one hour prior to the service. He will be laid to rest at Mount Hope Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Faith Lutheran Church or Midland Hospice. 

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