Richard Paul Schrader , 81, of rural Columbia City, died peacefully at 10:38 a.m. Sunday, October 8, 2023, at Brookdale, Fort Wayne, where he has been a resident since April 2021.

Born on August 12, 1942, in Van Wert County, Ohio, he was a son of the late Charles Raymond Schrader and Nellie May (Shoultz) Schrader. As a young child, the family moved to Thorncreek Twp., Whitley County, where he completed grade school and graduated from Columbia City Joint High School in 1961.

He became a professional truck driver and a member of the Teamsters Local 414, Fort Wayne. He drove for Yellow Freight for the majority of his career, retiring in 2007.

In addition to driving, he also maintained a small farm, raising livestock ranging from cows to chickens to goats and horses.

A strong family man, he delighted in family gatherings. Whether watching sports, playing cards, pitching horseshoes, or sharing a meal, he enjoyed spending time with his family. Through the years, he loved to golf, living on or near the area golf courses. He was an active member of the Railroaders Golf League. Remaining active in retirement, he never stopped working, always finding ways to help others.

He is survived by his children, Richel Ormsby of Columbia City, Richard (Kim) Schrader of Fort Wayne, Nickolas Schrader of Columbia City, Angel (Anthony) Donato of Melbourne, FL, and William Whittenberger of Fort Wayne; seven grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

Additionally, he was preceded in death by brothers Gary and Dan Schrader.

The funeral service will be at 4 p.m. Tuesday (October 17) at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City. Burial is at the Nolt Cemetery. Visitation is from 5 to 8 p.m. on Monday and from 2 p.m. until the service on Tuesday at the funeral home.

Memorials in Richard's honor are to the American Diabetes Association.