Kenneth D. Bader

Kenneth Dwayne "Kenny" Bader, 91, of Cawker City, Kansas, passed away peacefully on September 9, 2025, at the Parkview Care Center in Osborne, KS. He was born on the family farm SE of Osborne on July 10, 1934. His life was a testament to dedication, craftsmanship, and quiet strength—a legacy that lives on through his large and loving family.

Kenneth graduated from Osborne High School in 1952. After completing his education, he worked on the family farm for several years before moving into town to begin a lifelong career in mechanics. He started at Conrad Motors (Chrysler Plymouth Dealer) in Osborne, where he learned the intricacies of working on automobiles and farm equipment. His passion for hands-on work and his natural aptitude for fixing things led him to Cawker City, where he became a Master Technician at Case IH (Cawker City Equipment Co). Over the course of 40 years with the company, Kenneth earned the respect of colleagues and customers alike for his skill, reliability, and unwavering work ethic.

Though offered a full-ride scholarship to pursue art in college—thanks to his remarkable talent for drawing, Kenneth chose instead to follow his heart and work with his hands. His artistry found expression not only on paper but also in the precision and care he brought to every machine he repaired.

Kenneth's life was deeply rooted in love and family. He married Mary (Vaughn) Bader, the love of his life, with whom he shared 65 years of marriage. Together they built a home filled with warmth, discipline, laughter, and enduring love, a model of partnership that served as an example to their children.

He is survived by his eight children: Sheryl (Robert) Budke of Beloit, KS; Doug (Mary) Bader of Cawker City, KS; Steve (Callie) Bader of Cawker City, KS; Sheila Lutgen of Beloit, KS; Darrin (Vanessa) Bader of Louisburg, KS; Darrell (Lisa) Bader of Manhattan, KS; Chris (Allison) Bader of Bismarck, ND; and Karen (Andy) Niemczyk of Beloit, KS.

Kenneth also leaves behind four sisters: Joyce Moore of Osborne, KS; Bonnie Penn of Benton, KS; Madonna Fischer of Salina, KS; and Kathy Smith of Salado, TX. He is also survived by his sister-in-law Leota Marr of Commerce City, CO.

He leaves a lasting legacy through his 27 grandchildren, 43 great-grandchildren, and 11 great-great-grandchildren.

Kenneth was preceded in death by his beloved wife Mary; his parents Joseph and Louise (Schultz) Bader; his brother Billy Joe Bader; and four grandchildren: Taylor Lutgen, Monica Bader, Caldyn Wasinger, and Graeme Murphy.

Beyond his professional accomplishments and family devotion, Kenneth had many passions that reflected the depth of his character. He was an artist at heart who could draw anything with ease. Though he chose not to pursue art professionally, it remained a quiet joy throughout his life.

He also had a deep love for animals. Known for rescuing small creatures in need and nursing them back to health, Kenneth showed compassion not just through words but through action. His gentle care for animals mirrored the tenderness beneath his strong exterior.

Kenneth and Mary shared a love for dancing that brought them joy throughout their marriage. On many Saturday nights they could be found waltzing or polka dancing with friends—a celebration of life's simple pleasures and their enduring bond.

A man of integrity and humility, Kenneth believed that if you were going to do a job, you should do it right—and he lived by that principle every day. He modeled honesty and faithfulness in both marriage and parenting. His legacy is one not only of hard work but also of quiet strength and unwavering love.

May Kenneth's memory be a blessing and may we carry forth his legacy of love and compassion in all that we do. We shall find comfort in his memory and follow his guidance to inspire generations to come.

The family will receive friends at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church 612 12th St. Cawker City, KS from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Sunday, September 14, 2025. A rosary will follow at 7:00 PM.  A funeral mass will be held on Monday, September 15, 2025, at 10:00 AM at the Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church at 612 12th St. Cawker City, KS. The family invites friends to join them for a luncheon following the service.  Interment will be at Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery, 1329 D Rd. Cawker City, KS.  Memorials may be given to the Pet Connection or St. Jude's.