Bellaire resident Robert Lee Rader, age 79, passed away peacefully on May 19, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of stories, laughter, and memories that will live on through all who knew and loved him.
Born on December 10, 1946, at home in Moundsville — despite his lifelong claim that he was somehow “born in the car wash” — Robert never lost his sense of humor. He had a way of making people laugh, telling stories, and bringing lightness to everyday moments.
Robert proudly served his country in the Army and was honorably discharged, carrying that same sense of dedication throughout his life. He worked many years at Triangle PWC in Moundsville.
Family meant everything to Robert. He loved cookouts, football, and spending time with the people he cared about most. He also enjoyed trips to the Downs to try his luck on the machines and loved music — especially My Way, a fitting song for a man who truly lived life on his own terms.
Robert was preceded in death by his parents, John and Beuna Rader; brothers John Jr., Raymond, Joseph, and James “Jim” Rader; and sisters Dorothy Hodgeson and Eloise Rader.
He leaves behind his loving family: ex-wife and life-long friend Darla Rader; sister Laura Jennings; children Kevin (Tiffini) Rader, David Rader (Brooke), and Pam Simpson (Ed); grandchildren Bailee (Alex) Potochnik, Leah Rader (Matt), Justin Rader (Destin), and Tyler Simpson; and great-granddaughter Raelee Potochnik.
Robert will be remembered for his humor, his stories, his love of family, and the way he made ordinary moments memorable. And every now and then, someone will likely smile and remember that he always swore he was “born in the car wash.”
He truly did it his way.
In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to the Bellaire American Legion in Robert’s name.
Family, friends, acquaintances, and anyone whose life was touched by Robert are warmly invited to celebrate his life and memory:
Celebration of Life:
Riverfront Park Shelter
108 Jackson Avenue
Moundsville WV
Saturday, July 4, 2026
1:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Join us for food, music, stories, and remembrance as we celebrate a life well lived. Food, pop, and water will be provided. BYOB. Come share memories, laughter, and good company in Robert’s honor.
