Death date: Jan 19, 2016
James Rademaker, 94, passed away January 19, 2016. Beloved husband of the late Alice for 72 years. Loving father of Pat McCollum, Tim (the late Sue Anne), Dan, James (Carmen), and Ken. Loving brother. Dear grandfather of 6 and gre Read Obituary
Mr. Rademaker has been an influence on me all my life and that won't change. He was like a parent: You didn't want to let him down. The last time I saw him he apologized for not seeing the notice of my mother's death and, therefore, not attending her funeral. She passed away 47 years after I graduated! He was a sweet man and a wonderful role model as a husband and father. Bryan Roub, Strongsville High Class of 1959.
After reading the story of his life, and reading his DD214, I am grateful for men like him. I thank God he lived through 10 combat sorties over German controlled European air space to become a teacher and a coach. Who will replace him and do this work? May our God bless his family.
I would like to extend my sincerest sympathy to the family of Coach Jim Rademaker. To me, this fine and gentle man was a living example of all the things I wanted to become one day. He certainly was no ordinary man. He was a leader who led by example.
Some might say that the true worth of a man is measured by the love he leaves behind, as well as the fond memories that will continue to live in those he unknowingly touched in some positive way. This, most truly, is his legacy.
As one of his students, and as an athlete at Strongsville High School in the mid 1960's, it was my good fortune to sit in his classes and work under his guidance on the athletic field. Those lessons, as well as his words, well remembered from long ago were often borrowed by me ( with attribution of course!) for the benefit of my students and other staff during my 36 years as a coach and teacher in California. Many of my students knew the name of this wonderful man and mentor, and will carry that name forward.
It is to you the family, and to those that were closest to him in life, and who were with him in his final days, that I extend my deepest, heartfelt sympathy.
May God ease your pain at his loss, and give you comfort.
With Greatest Sincerity,
David W. Hendricks
Class of 1966
Strongsville High School
