Early on Christmas morning, surrounded by his children, Edward "Ed" Rademacher passed peacefully in his sleep.

Ed was born on August 17, 1934 in Butte, MT where he resided his entire life. He attended Immaculate Conception Grade School and Boys Central. On February 2, 1953, he was initiated into the United Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 41. After serving his apprenticeship, he earned his Montana State Journeyman plumbing license.

Ed was proud of his blue-collar roots and thrived in the plumbing trade. Early in his career, he was proud to have worked on the ballistic missile sites throughout Montana and the Dakotas. His talents opened a door for him at the Montana Power Company where he was hired as a gas servicemen. In 1984, Ed earned his Montana State Master Plumbing License and became the master plumber of record for the Montana Power Company until his retirement.

Throughout his career, he became a mentor to many and was eager to share his knowledge with any young apprentice. Upon his passing, Ed was the longest living member of Local 41, an achievement for which he was incredibly proud.

Ed loved the outdoors and was passionate about fishing and bird hunting. Upon Ed's retirement, there was a notable decline in the Sage hen, Pheasant, Waterfowl and Trout population in Southwest Montana! He also cherished his relationships with his four legged friends especially his golden retriever Sam.

On June 22, 1957, Ed took Patti Janhunen as his beloved wife which began a 66 year union that rarely saw the two of them apart. Devoutly faithful, they occupied the same pew at St Ann's church every Sunday. As passionate supporters of Butte athletics, they could be seen together at most local sporting events. Their loyal and inseparable bond produced seven children, towards which they devoted their lives.

He and his wife Patti raised their seven children in the family home of 65 years. Wherever the kids roamed, no matter how far, they all knew that "home" was on Argyle St. That was the type of love that Patti and Ed provided. In the end, both Patti and Ed peacefully passed in their loving home surrounded by their children.

He will be remembered by his children: Ed Rademacher Jr., Susan (Scott) Woodrow, Julie (Dan) Clifford, Janice (Leo) McCarthy, Tim Rademacher, Karen (Bob) Bennie, Dan (Cindy) Rademacher; grandchildren: Kristin (Pete) Blake, Brian (Nina) Woodrow, Jenna McCarthy, Elliot (Riley) Bennie, Maria (Dustin Glaser) Woodrow, Nicole (Robert) Hughes, Heather (Jacob) Wilson and Chad (Kimi) Silk; great grandchildren: Peyton, Kairi, and Maeve Blake; Harley Wilson; and Leo, Vivian and Lillian Silk.

Ed was preceded in death by wife Patti, his granddaughter Mariah, his parents Ed and Nora Rademacher and his mother and father in law Margaret and William Janhunen and brothers and sister in laws James and Janet Janhunen, William and Agnes Janhunen and Peggy Vucurovich; and his brother-in-law, Bob Wiser.

The family wishes to thank Carol Eaglefeather for walking Dakota faithfully every morning these past few years. Your dedication to Dakota and friendship to Ed is greatly appreciated. Jim Konen's weekly visit were very comforting. Finally, the family's heartfelt appreciation goes out to Senior Solutions Home Care and Hospice, Dr Siddoway, Paula Bracken, and Deacon Dan, for their care and compassion.

As Ed and Patti both cherished time with family and out of respect for the holidays, a private family service has been held. Please enjoy some added peace and love with your family.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Mariah Daye McCarthy Scholarship Fund. PO Box 66, Butte, MT.