Richard Ray Hauder was born Feb. 27, 1935, in Milford, to Harry and Leona (Zimmerman) Hauder, and went to his heavenly home on Sunday, Nov. 26, 2023, at Seward Memorial Hospital at the age of 88.
As a young boy, Richard attended Milford Public Schools graduating with the class of 1953. He accepted Christ as his personal savior and was baptized at East Fairview Mennonite Church. After high school, Richard moved to California and attended the Compton College for one year, where he took automotive classes. Soon after, Richard was united in marriage to Virginia (Schrock) Hauder on March 8, 1959, in Upland, California. Together, they moved back to Nebraska and made their home in Milford. To this union four children, Brent, Terry, Lisa and Kristine, were born.
Richard truly loved farming – growing crops for many years and took pride in his work. He grew corn and beans, and raised hogs and cattle His strong work ethic did not go unnoticed.
Richard was a member of Beth-El Mennonite Church, was a Sunday School teacher, a faithful member of the Gideons, MDS representative, Et Cetra board member, Farmers Union Co-op, and the Nut Growers Association.
Later in life, Richard enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He would often attend their sporting events. Richard also enjoyed traveling, planting trees and grafting walnut trees. Richard and Virginia would head south to winter in Sarasota, Florida, for 10 years.
Survivors include his wife, Virginia Hauder; sons, Brent Hauder, Milford, and Terry (Leanne) Hauder, Milford; daughters, Lisa (Gerald) Cleaver, McGregor, Texas, and Kristin Martin, Milford; grandchildren, Brendon Hauder, Breanna Zavalaga (Gian), Brandel Hauder (Taylor), Broderick Hauder, Brittani Hauder, Kelsey Walker (Zane), Ashley Goering (Chris), Alex Hauder (Eden), Andrew Hauder, Logan Hauder, Caleb Hauder, Colton Hauder, Bryan Cleaver, Shawn Cleaver, Karissa Cleaver, Carlie (Patrick) McReynolds, and Austin Martin; 15 great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, LaDonna Hauder, Versailles, Missouri; and also many other relatives and friends.
Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Leona Hauder; father-in-law, Lee Schrock; mother-in-law Mildred Schrock; and his brother, Maynard Hauder.
A graveside service was Dec. 2 at East Fairview Cemetery, rural Milford. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Gideons. Arrangements by Lauber Funeral and Cremation Services.
