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, Quaker Meadows Presbyterian Church, 2698 NC 181, Morganton, NC 28655, or to Amorem Hospice, 902 Kirkwood Street, NW, Lenoir, NC 28645.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
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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.
Such a sweet man. He loved his family, especially "sweet Betsy" with all of his heart! Such a character! Oh, the stories he would tell. He will be missed!!
I am sad to learn of Dave's passing but I know that he is in the presence of God.
I always always enjoyed talking to you. You were so kind. Thank you for your gifts!!!
David became a great friend when we joined the Church. He welcomed us with open arms and we knew from that gesture that we had made the right decision. He was truly an man of honor and grace. Rest in peace my friend.
Lorie and Todd- your dad carried “God’s Light” with him wherever he went. Your dad adored both of you and he always shared how much he loved you whenever I saw him. I will forever remember all the great memories of growing up down the street from the Rader Family (my second home). Your dad made everyone feel loved and special. Your dad loved God and lived out his faith each and every day. Know you are so close to my heart and in my prayers. Much love. ❤️