Mildred "Midge" M. Rader

Mildred Maxine “Midge” Rader, 93, of Keokuk, passed away peacefully on February 21, 2026, at 2:35 a.m. at River Hills Village in Keokuk, surrounded by love. Born on February 14, 1933, in Keokuk, she was the daughter of Fred and Mildred Viola Betts Glasgow.

Midge graduated from Keokuk High School with the Class of 1951. She was united in marriage to Paul Rader on June 14, 1953, at the Second Presbyterian Church in Keokuk. He preceded her in death on May 14, 2004. Together they built a life rooted in loyalty, hard work, laughter, and deep family bonds that continue through generations.

Midge was employed at Schlegel for thirty-two years as a finish operator, retiring in 1994. She attended New Testament Church. She enjoyed walking and playing cards, but most of all, she cherished spending time with her family.

She was the heart of her family — a steady, gentle presence whose care and guidance shaped the lives of those around her. Being a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother was her greatest joy, and she carried those roles with pride, patience, and deep love. Her home, her voice, and her presence were places of comfort and belonging.

A die-hard Chicago Cubs fan through and through, Midge remained faithful season after season. No matter how tough things looked, she would smile and say, “There’s always next year.” Watching the Cubs win the World Series in 2016 was a moment she treasured — a victory she never stopped believing would come.

She is survived by two sons, Terry Lee Rader of Keokuk and Timothy Paul Rader (Peggy) of Keokuk; two daughters, Wendy Jo Kelly (Paul) of Keokuk and LuAnn Godfrey (Daniel) of McCalla, Alabama; nine grandchildren; and twelve great-grandchildren, including one great-grandchild on the way; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Charles Glasgow and Fred Glasgow; her sister, Marjorie Hatfield; and one great-grandchild.

A graveside service for family and friends is pending.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in her name to the Keokuk Humane Society.

Midge’s life was a blessing to all who knew her. She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever present in the hearts of her family.

The Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk is assisting the family with arrangements.