Edward Dean Bader was born on September 30, 1950, in Detroit, Michigan, to Dean Bader and Geraldine (Hand) Bader. He passed away on January 16, 2026, in Coyle, Oklahoma, surrounded by the love of his family.

On June 18, 1971, Edward married the love of his life, Dee Thompson, in Portland, Oregon. Together they shared nearly 56 beautiful years of marriage, building a life full of love, hard work, laughter, and devotion to one another.

Edward and Dee made their home in Coyle after moving from Washington and enjoyed the peaceful simplicity of small-town life. Edward was a man who worked with his hands and his heart. Over the years, he proudly served his community as a barber for five years, a postal worker for 32 years, and a school bus driver for 10 years. No matter the job, he showed up with kindness, reliability, and a smile that made people feel seen.

Edward found joy in the simple things. He loved gold dredging in southern Oregon and often joked that he had "gold fever," even if it never made him rich. What truly made him wealthy was his family. He adored his grandkids and was a devoted family man through and through. He loved soaking up the sun, working around his house and yard, and always keeping busy with projects that made a home feel cared for.

As a barber at heart, he never missed a chance to give his family a haircut, often turning those moments into memories filled with laughter and love. His faith was important to him, and he shared it by serving as a Sunday school teacher, quietly shaping young hearts with patience and kindness.

Edward is survived by his wife Dee; daughter Trudee Barfield and husband Mark; brother Teddy Bader and wife Marilyn; thirteen Grandchildren: Jodee, Austin, Alexis, Carson, Hayden, Hunter, Clara, Hayley, Payton, Jayce, Hope, Levi, and Lily; and nine Great Grandchildren: Maddee, Benjamin, Mason, Carter, Eliza, Abbie Jo, Grant, Ivy, and Nora Lee. He was preceded in death by his parents and son Luke Bader.

A private family memorial service will be held at a later date.

Edward will be remembered as a hardworking man, a loving husband, a devoted father and grandfather, and a steady presence to everyone who knew him. His life was one of service, love, and faith, and his legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched. He will be deeply missed and forever loved.