Kermit L. Rader's Obituary
Kermit L. Rader
August 4, 1953 - June 3, 2026
Kermit Rader passed away on June 3, 2026, at the age of 72, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was a devoted husband, loving father, cherished PopPop, and loyal friend whose warmth, wisdom, and generous spirit touched many lives.
Born on August 4, 1953, in Allentown, Pennsylvania, Kermit spent his formative years in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. He attended Duke University before earning his law degree from George Washington University in Washington, D.C. Kermit began his legal career with the Environmental Protection Agency, a role he deeply valued, before moving into private practice. Throughout his distinguished career as an environmental attorney, he was dedicated to protecting the natural world and advocating for responsible stewardship of the environment.
In retirement, Kermit happily exchanged legal briefs and ties for bottles and blends, embracing a second career he thoroughly enjoyed as a wine specialist at Total Wine. He loved sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm with customers and friends, earning a reputation as everyone's favorite “wine guy.”
Kermit found joy in many pursuits, including hiking, biking, travel, and the outdoors. He treasured adventures to Puerto Rico, Portugal, the Caribbean, Block Island, California, and countless other destinations. Kermit was a voracious reader with a special interest in history and historical facts and figures. Yet, of all the things he loved, nothing was more important to him than his family. Kermit’s sons were his greatest pride and inspiration, and his stepdaughters became the daughters he never had. Of all the roles he held throughout his life, his favorite was undoubtedly PopPop. Kermit delighted in every moment spent with his grandchildren and was immensely proud of each of his children and grandchildren.
Kermit was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Eleanor Rader. He is survived by his beloved wife, Judy Delaney; his sons, Greg (Alejandra), Geoff (Jessi), and Ben; his stepdaughters, Jacqui Hurley (Vince) and Ericalyn Valais (Mario); his treasured grandchildren, Ava, Mario, Delaney, Teagan, Declan, Seamus, Nayara, and Kaiah; his siblings, Eric (Janet) and Sally; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
Kermit’s intelligence, kindness, sense of humor, impressive trivia knowledge and love of life will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew him.
A memorial service celebrating Kermit’s life and legacy will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to honor Kermit’s memory by raising a glass of your favorite wine, taking a walk in nature, and appreciating the beauty of the world he wants us all to protect.
Please sign the tribute wall at this site.
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