Arthur "Art" E. Bader, age 71, of Rockford, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on Friday, September 12, 2025, at Lima Memorial Hospital. He was born on September 30, 1953, in Celina, to the late Robert and Dorothy (Bollenbacher) Bader.

Art is survived by his brother, Jim (Lori) Bader of Celina; niece, Hillary Bader of Celina; nephew, Brady Bader of Indianapolis; great-nephews, Landon and Reese Bader; great-niece, Ella Brunswick; and special family members, Jeremy Walter and Marshall Smith, along with their children, whom Art dearly loved and considered as family.

A 1971 graduate of Parkway High School, Art continued his education at Wright State University in Dayton, where he earned his bachelor's degree. He later received his master's degree in education from the University of Saint Francis in Fort Wayne. Art dedicated 38 years of his life to teaching second grade at Parkway Schools, retiring in 2013. Even after retirement, his passion for education continued as he enjoyed tutoring students. Teaching was not just a career for Art-it was truly his calling.

Beyond the classroom, Art lived a life full of joy, generosity, and adventure. He loved traveling the world, sharing flowers as thoughtful gifts, and dining with family and friends. He cherished his relationships deeply, faithfully taught confirmation at church for many years, and was always active in his community. Known for his servant's heart, Art consistently put others before himself.

He was a member of the Retired Teachers Association, a lifelong member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Liberty Township, and served on the Rockford Carnegie Library Board for many years.

Visitation will be held from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, September 15, 2025, at Cisco Funeral Home in Celina. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Liberty Township, 9380 Wabash Rd, Rockford, with Pastor Ron McCallum officiating. The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

Memorial contributions can be made to St. Paul's Lutheran Church or the Rockford Carnegie Library, 162 S. Main St., Rockford, Ohio.