Wendy C. Rader

Wendy C. Rader, age 70 of Northfield, MN passed away on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at the Allina Health Faribault Medical Center following an extended illness.

Wendy Carol, the daughter of Albert and Violet (Hall) Weed was born on July 16, 1956, in Northfield, MN. She attended Northfield High School and graduated with the class of 1974. Shortly after graduation, Wendy married Conrad Malecha and together they had their daughter, Malissa. They divorced a few short years later. Wendy embraced being a mother and made sure her daughter had everything she needed. In June 1980 Wendy married Rick Rader and they welcomed two sons, Chaylen and Alex. Although they later divorced, they kept a strong connection and Wendy helped care for him in his final days. Wendy stayed at home to raise their children and then worked at the Fairway Employees Credit Union and most recently had been a waitress at the Big Steer Restaurant. Wendy truly loved her work as a waitress. Her warm smile made her a favorite among customers, many of whom became friends. Wendy was a talented and creative spirit who found joy in crafting, drawing, sewing and carving personalized wood signs for friends and family. She had a gift for making meaningful treasures that reflected the love she poured into everything she created. One of Wendy’s greatest passions was riding motorcycles. She cherished the freedom of the open road, and she and Rick spent countless hours exploring the scenic backroads of Southern Minnesota, especially the Lake Pepin area, a place she dearly loved. Her enthusiasm for riding inspired others, and for several years she shared her knowledge and confidence as a motorcycle safety instructor.

Wendy will be remembered for her creativity, her care for others, and most of all, the love she had for her family.

She is survived by her children, Malissa (Doug) Levy of Owatonna, Alex Rader and Chaylen Rader both of Northfield; by grandchildren, Delaney, Madison, Dalton, Dawson, Alexis, Madelyn and Ambreia; by her mother, Violet Weed of Northfield; by her siblings, Terry Weed, Fay Stowe, Bryan (Gigi) Weed, Lori (Mitch) Kimmes, all of Northfield, MN; by her aunt, Maydelle Rose and uncle Robert Hall and by several nieces, nephews and great-nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her father, Albert Weed, grandson, Josiah, brother Phillip Weed and former husbands, Rick Rader and Conrad Malecha

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.