Search by Name

Search by Name

Patrick W. Rader

Patrick W. Rader obituary

FUNERAL HOME

Nelson-Edelen-Bennett Funeral Home

2072 S. Dixie Blvd.

Radcliff, Kentucky

Patrick Rader Obituary

Patrick W. Rader, 61, passed away peacefully Friday, July 18, 2025, after a courageous 14-year battle with cancer. He faced each day with strength, resilience and a positive spirit that inspired everyone around him.

Born Feb. 12, 1964, to Mary and Mitchel Rader. Patrick grew up with a love for the outdoors and treasured memories of playing in creeks with his childhood friends. He was a proud graduate of the Kentucky School for the Deaf, Class of 1982, and spent his life deeply connected to the deaf community he loved so dearly.

Patrick dedicated more than 22 years of his professional life to Gallaudet University, where he most recently served as commander of the Department of Public Safety. His leadership, kindness, and commitment made a lasting impact on the students, faculty and colleagues he served alongside. He was a source of strength and compassion in every role he took on.

Outside of work, Patrick was actively involved in Deaf Camps Inc., where he served as both a camp counselor and a member of the board of directors. Supporting and mentoring Deaf youth was a cause that remained close to his heart.

Patrick was preceded in death by his parents, Mary and Mitchell; and his two siblings, Scott and Kathy.

Survivors include his loving wife of 28 years, Cathy; his two children, Chris and Meghan, whom he considered his greatest accomplishments; his two siblings, Pam and Mike; as well as several nieces, nephews and extended family. He also will be deeply missed by his many friends, students and colleagues who knew and loved him.

The family would like to express heartfelt gratitude to the many healthcare workers who provided exceptional care and compassion during Patrick's battle with cancer.

Per Patrick's wishes, no formal service will be held. Instead, his family invites you to honor his memory by sharing stories, pictures and laughter -just as Patrick would have wanted.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Deaf Camps Inc. to help give more deaf children the opportunity to experience the joy of camp that Patrick believed in so deeply.

To donate, visit deafcampsinc.org/support-.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The News-Enterprise from Jul. 23 to Jul. 26, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for Patrick Rader

Not sure what to say?





0 Entries

Be the first to post a memory or condolences.

Make a Donation
in Patrick Rader's name

Memorial Events
for Patrick Rader

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

Nelson-Edelen-Bennett Funeral Home

2072 S. Dixie Blvd., Radcliff, KY 40160

How to support Patrick's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Patrick Rader's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more