Laurel Linnae Mader

Laurel Linnae Mader, aged 60, passed away in the early morning of August 2, 2025, surrounded by family in the comfort of her home. Laurel was born on May 22, 1965, in Dell Rapids, South Dakota to Maureen and the late Milton Eide. She is survived by her husband, Chris Mader; her daughters, Samantha Mader (28), and Alyson Mader Manhoff (25), and her younger brother, Paul Eide of Stratham, New Hampshire.

Laurel grew up on a second-generation farm located in Colton, South Dakota. Upon high school graduation she attended Augustana College in Sioux Falls and then transferred to Iowa State University. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Child, Parent, and Community Services in December 1989.

Shortly after college graduation, Laurel moved to Chicago, Illinois to begin her career. Through dear friends in Chicago, Laurel was set up on a blind date with Chris, who had also recently moved to Chicago from Kansas City, Missouri. Their first date was January 13, 1991. Laurel and Chris were married on April 30, 1994, at Augustana University in Sioux Falls, and they treasured over 31 years of marriage together. Through career opportunities, Laurel and Chris relocated to their current home in Medina, Ohio on October 29, 1997.

Laurel’s career flourished in leadership roles at the Daycare Action Council, and the YWCA in the Chicago area. After relocating to Medina, Ohio, Laurel provided daycare services in the home for several very special families. As her two daughters grew, she started working part-time for a family-owned Insurance Agency in Medina where she flourished. Her most recent career was with The Westfield Insurance Company as a highly efficient and respected underwriter.

Though our hearts are heavy, we take comfort in the love and memories Laurel leaves behind. She touched the lives of so many of her family, friends and coworkers with her warmth, strength, kindness, and compassion. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of her family, and all who knew her. Laurel will be deeply missed, and forever cherished. She will be laid to rest at Spring Grove Cemetery in Medina, Ohio at a later date.

Services will be held at Willow Creek Lutheran Church, Dell Rapids, on Friday, August 15, 2025, at 3pm CST. Light refreshments will follow from 4-5pm CST.

Family will receive friends on Friday, August 15, 2025, from 1-4pm EDT at Waite Funeral Home in Medina. A funeral service will follow at 4pm EDT at the funeral home. Online condolences and memories may be submitted at www.waitefuneralhome.com