Ronald Ray Strader, 77, of Holton, KS passed away unexpectedly February 15, 2017 in Holton. He was born November 12, 1939 in Marshall County, KS the son of Alfred Nelson and Hazel Mae (Catlin) Strader.

Ronald graduated from Frankfort High School in 1957. After graduation, he worked for over 40 years at Strader Drilling as a water well driller.

Ronald loved his family and working in his yard. He was an avid runner; he ran his first marathon at the KU Relays at age 40 and continued running in 62 marathons throughout the United States and Europe. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Holton and Holton Scramblers. Ronald was part of the “grounds crew” for Holton High School football field and he was influential in the landscaping and construction of the walking/running trail at Banner Creek Reservoir.

 He married Linda L. Locher on September 24, 1961 in Sabetha. She survives of the home. Other survivors include his daughter, Jennifer Paxton (Kevin) of Holton, KS; his son, Ryan Strader of Holton, KS; his daughter-in-law, Diann Strader of Holton, KS; 2 brothers, Leroy Strader (Janice) of Sabetha, KS and Glenn Strader (Maxine) of Wolf Point, MT.

 He loved attending all of his “superstar” grandchildren’s activities. Ron’s 7 grandchildren are Taylor Stonerock (Anthony), Sydney Strader, Connor Strader, Peyton Paxton, Riley Strader, Mason Strader and Paige Paxton.

 He was preceded in death by his parents and a son, Scott R. Strader.

 A celebration of Ron’s life will be 10:30 a.m. Monday, February 20, 2017 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Family will greet friends from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home. Private family inurnment will be in the Holton Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family strongly suggests memorials may be given to the Holton High School Athletic Fund or Friends of Banner Creek Foundation c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.