Thomas Burton Strader
October 2, 1937 ~ September 10, 2021
Thomas Burton Strader, 83, Roachdale, passed away surrounded by his family September 10, 2021. Tom was born October 2, 1937, in Indianapolis, to the late William Burton and Bertha Jewell (Kelly) Strader. He married Joyce (Stevens) on April 7, 1956, and she survives.
Tom graduated from George Washington High School and proudly served in the United States Army. Tom joined the Indiana State Police on August 1, 1957 and served the citizens of Indiana as a State Trooper until his retirement on October 31, 1992. Not one to sit still, Tom enjoyed a retirement job driving for Thrifty Car Rental. Tom was a longtime member of Harvest Fellowship, the Indiana State Police Alliance, and the Greensburg Masonic Lodge #36. He loved caring for his yard, cheering on the Indianapolis Colts & Indiana Pacers, and keeping his family on their toes with his practical jokes. Tom will be fondly remembered for his kindness and generosity.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a daughter, Julie Baer; brother, William Strader; sister, Alta Mae Mahaney.
Survivors include his wife of 65 years, Joyce (Stevens) Strader; sons, Tom, Todd, and Troy Strader and their spouses; son-in-law, Joe Baer; sister, Mary Lou Pearson and Kate Day; ten grandchildren; six great grandchildren.
The family is grateful to the PMH Squad 1, the Roachdale Volunteer Fire Department, and the Roachdale Police Department for their care.
Visitation will be from 2 to 4 p.m., September 25, 2021, at Harvest Fellowship, 1618 W. 500 S., Crawfordsville, with a Celebration of Life beginning at 4 p.m.. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Julie Baer Memorial Scholarship, c/o South Madison Community Foundation, 233 S. Main St., Pendleton, IN 46064. Carlisle – Branson Funeral Service & Crematory, is serving the family. Visit www.CarlisleBranson.com to share a favorite memory or to sign the online guest registry.
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Family, I am saddened to hear of Uncle Tom’s passing. I have fond memories of him driving my sisters and I with the siren on in his car. I loved him and love each of you and am praying for comfort for each of you. I know we will see each other in heaven and that lessens the pain.
As a kid, it was always a thrill when Uncle Tom pulled into the driveway in his State Police car with the bubble gum machine on top. It was even better if he’d blip the siren and turn on the lights for a minute. Uncle Tom also taught me how to shoot a snub-nose .38. And when my son died, Uncle Tom was there giving me support and slipping mints in my pocket. I hope the pain of the moment is relieved by the joy of knowing we’ll see him again when we’re caught up together in the clouds.
I have never met a more honorable, ethical and inspiring man in my life. With tears in my eyes and sadness in my heart I am sorry I can not make the services. Just know uncle Tom you and your family have always been an inspiration to me. Love and miss you. Perry Day
Aunt Joyce and family, I am so sorry I am in Arizona and can’t be with you today to celebrate Uncle Tom’s life. I am praying for God to comfort all of you. Much love to you. Kathy and Phil Troyer