Jerry Crader
Hardin |
Jerry David Crader passed away on March 31, 2024, at Pike County Memorial Hospital.
He was born on March 19, 1951, to the late Art and Louis (Klunk) Crader. He married Betty Hinz on August 26, 1972, in Mt. Olive, IL.
Jerry retired from Ironworkers Local 46 in Springfield, IL in 2006 after over 30 years. Jerry was an avid sports fan, but he was best known for his fastpitch softball pitching ability. He played for numerous teams during his softball career and won two state championships. He also enjoyed fishing, mushrooming, and was an avid Cardinals and STL blues fan. He enjoyed “tinkering” in the barn and mowing the lawn. He was inducted into the Illinois Softball Hall of Fame in 2016. Jerry still holds the Calhoun High School record for discus and shotput. He was always just a phone call away. As a professional welder he would travel to any farmer’s field to make repairs on equipment at the drop of a hat. Jerry also served as a deacon for Indian Creek Church of Christ.
Surviving is his wife of 51 years, Betty; three daughters, Amy (Tom) Godar of Hamburg, Amanda (Mandy) Crader of St. Peters, MO, and Lyndsey (Chance) Jackson of Nebo, IL; four grandchildren, Emma Godar, Kevin Godar, Mason Jackson, and Landon Jackson; sister, Helen Barnes of Carrollton, IL; brother, Steve Crader of Hamburg; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Visitation will be on Friday, April 12, 2024, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Gress, Kallal, and Schaaf Funeral Home in Hardin.
Funeral Service will be Saturday, April 13, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at Indian Creek Church of Christ in Hamburg.
Burial to follow at Indian Creek Cemetery.
A luncheon will follow at Indian Creek Church immediately following the graveside services.
Memorials may be made to Indian Creek Church of Christ or Indian Creek Cemetery.
Online Condolences may be given at www.kallalandschaaf.com.
Gress, Kallal and Schaaf Funeral Home
