Stephen Fredrick Bader

Stephen Fredrick Bader, 70, of Akron, Ohio, met his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on March 27, 2026 after battling a lengthy illness. The son of Lawrence and Mary Lou Bader (nee Knapp), he lived a life marked by faithfulness, integrity, and quiet strength, leaving a lasting legacy for all who knew and loved him.

Steve was married for 46 years to the love of his life, Ivy Bader, a union that beautifully reflected an enduring covenant of love, sacrifice, and devotion through the joys and sorrows of life. Together, they built a home rooted in love, faith and commitment.

During his early years, Steve completed a four-year Bible course of study in just three years. Following this achievement, he stepped into ministry by entering the mission field. Alongside his beloved wife, Ivy, and their young son, they traveled throughout the East Coast, faithfully proclaiming the Gospel and delivering Bibles to churches and ministries in need, leaving a lasting impact for the Kingdom.

A resident of Akron for most of his life, Steve spent his childhood exploring the great outdoors with his brothers and friends, adventuring through every corner of West Akron and beyond. As an artistic carpenter, Steve approached his craft with care, precision, and an unwavering commitment to quality. His carpentry reflected some of his finest qualities and stands as a tangible reminder of his dedication and skill. Steve also enjoyed a good jam session on the guitar, visiting with his siblings, reading stories to his grandchildren, and finding time to build block forts with his grandchildren.

Steve was a devoted father and is survived by his three beloved children: Stephen (Jessica) Bader, Holly (Jude) Carroll, and Jared (Katelyn) Bader. He took great pride in his family and found immense joy in his role as “Poppy” to his eight cherished grandchildren: Tyson, Layla, Bailey, Moses, Boston, Edison, Siobhan, and Zelda, each of whom were the light of his life. Left to cherish his memory are his siblings Beth Lamont, Larry Bader, Tim (Sally) Bader and John (Dottie) Bos, along with many nieces, nephews and cousins.

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten son, so that whoever believes in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” - John 3:16

Family and friends are welcome to Celebrate Steve’s Life at 12:30 P.M. on MONDAY April 6th, 2026 at Grace Church, Bath Campus (Montrose Location), 565 S. Cleveland-Massillon Rd. Fairlawn, OH 44333. The family will receive friends two hours prior to the service. Interment to follow at Holy Cross Cemetery, 100 E. Waterloo Rd. Akron, OH 44319.

Services in care of The Billow Funeral Homes and Crematory, 85 N. Miller Road Akron, OH 44333 (Billow FAIRLAWN Chapel)