David Rader, 83, of Morganton, NC passed away, Tuesday, March 11, 2025. Born on June 4, 1941, he was the son of the late David and Ethel Rader.
David graduated from Morganton High School in 1959 and from Wake Forest College in 1963. In 1964 he married his high school sweetheart, Elizabeth Erwin Hutchins, and forever referred to her as “Sweet Betsy.” He had a long career in the furniture industry and retired from Henredon Furniture in the early 2000s. Mr. Rader was a member of Catawba Valley Masonic Lodge #217 and the Burke County Shrine Club.
David served on the board of directors of the American Children’s Home, the History Museum of Burke County, and the Burke Arts Council. He also served on the City of Morganton Planning and Zoning Board of Adjustments and on the Morganton City Council Advisory Committee on Fair Housing.
He sang in the choir of First Presbyterian Church for many years and served as a deacon and an elder. He enjoyed playing golf and had a hole-in-one twice. In 1978, he ran the Charlotte Marathon. In 1987, David carried the Olympic Torch through Morganton.
A loving husband, father, and grandfather, David is survived by his wife of 60 years, Elizabeth “Betsy” Hutchins Rader; children, Todd Rader and Lorie Rader Rehberger (Paul); and grandson, Joseph Rehberger (Mary Zwolinski).
The family will receive friends from 4 to 6 p.m., Friday, March 21, 2025 at Sossoman Funeral Home. The funeral will be held at 2 p.m., Saturday, March 22, 2025 at First Presbyterian Church Morganton with the Rev. Dr. John Hagmann and Rev. Rick Leissner officiating. Burial will follow at Forest Hill Cemetery with Masonic Rites provided by Catawba Valley Masonic Lodge #217.
Memorial contributions may be made to First Presbyterian Church, 100 Silver Creek Road, Morganton, NC, 28655(opens in new tab), Quaker Meadows Presbyterian Church, 2698 NC 181, Morganton, NC 28655, or to Amorem Hospice, 902 Kirkwood Street, NW, Lenoir, NC 28645(opens in new tab).
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
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Todd and Lorie, I'm so sorry for your loss. I will always remember your dad from the stories from my mom as they grew up together, for his laugh and great smile. I think of him as a big kid and smile when I remember him showing me his model trains. He will be missed. Peace to you both. Clarke
ALWAYS THINKING OF U DAV LOVE ALWAYS BIG JOE AND FAMILY
Todd and Lorie, I am so sad to hear about your dad. I always appreciated his humor and playfulness. He was a larger-than-life character in my mind when I was growing up based on the stories I heard about the outrageous adventures he and my mom had together. I hope you will find comfort in your memories. Wish I could be with you. Sending you hugs!
David was a good friend for many years. He will surely be missed by many. RIP my friend, until we meet again.
So upset at this loss for so many….he was a great man and such a wonderful friend. I shall miss him even though I rarely got to see him P ace and God’s blessings to all who loved David Patty Wacaster
Todd and Lorie, I am so sad to hear about your dad and wish I could join you to remember and honor him. He had such a warm, fun spirit, and I can still remember the laughs of both of your parents! Your dad was always a larger-than-life character in my mind because of the many stories I heard growing up about his and my mom's outrageous adventures. I hope you will find comfort in your memories of him. Hugs to you both!
What a wonderful man David was. So sorry to hear of his passing. His family will surely miss him as well as his many friends in Morganton. Prayers for Betsy and your family.
Todd I’m sorry for your loss, A note for Dave he was like a grandfather to Sammi. Dave you may be gone but Sammi and I will never forget you. You were the sweetest man I’ve ever met. You’re with the dear lord now, no more pain and worry. Sammi knows you’ll be looking down on her singing in the chorus at freedom. Much love my friend.
Dave was one of my sales reps when I first started at Henredon. He was so funny and helpful, and we were both born on June 4th. I'm sorry to hear of his passing, and am sending care and prayers to Betsy and the rest of his family.
My sincere sympathy to all of Dave’s family and friends. My time knowing and working with him at Henredon was a true pleasure. Always enjoyed his company. Rest in peace my friend.