Obituary of Peter A. Rademacher, II

Peter A. Rademacher, II, age 58 of Wilson, died after a lengthy illness on Tuesday, April 15, 2014, at his home while under the loving care of his family and Niagara Hospice. Peter was born January 20, 1956 in San Diego, CA, the son of the late Peter and Fran (McGregor) Rademacher. He was proud of being an Eagle Scout and after graduating from high school, he enlisted the U.S. Army in 1974, pursuing a military career in aviation as a helicopter pilot. Peter had served with the 82nd Airborne, was an AH-1 Pilot for 16 years, had served as a Medivac Pilot and was a Senior Master Aviator. He retired from the Army in 1994 as a Chief Warrant Officer. He was the recipient of Army Service Ribbon, the National Defense Service Medal (2), the Army Achievement Medal, the Master Army Aviator Badge, the Parachutist Badge, the Army Good Conduct Medal, the Army Commendation Medal (2 OLC), 3 Overseas Service Ribbons, and a Meritorious Service Medal (1OLC). Peter had also achieved a Bachelors Degree in Aviation and a Masters Degree in Aviation from Emory Riddle Aviation. Peter married Susan B. (Rick) Rademacher on September 17, 1977 and they have resided in Wilson since 1994. Peter received his Masters Degree in Administration from Canisius College. He was employed by the Wilson Central School District for 17 years, retiring as Principal in 2011 from the Wilson Middle School. Peter was also a ROTC Instructor at Buffalo Traditions High School for 3 years prior to his employment with the Wilson School District. Peter was a member of the American Legion Post in Wilson and an Exempt member of the Wilson Volunteer Fire Company. He loved driving his sports cars and children. Peter was dedicated to children and education. He is survived by his wife, Susan; his children, Christopher (Jessica) Rademacher of Wilson, Erin (Thomas) Mahoney of San Francisco, CA, and 2nd Lt. Katherine Abbott, USAF and her husband, 1st Lt. William Abbott, USA, both serving in the Middle East; his grandchildren, Oliver, Clark, and Grayson; a brother, Tom (Ivette) Rademacher of Costa Rica; a sister, Jennifer Bielasz of San Diego, CA; his mother in law, Donna Rick; and 4 nephews and 2 nieces. He was predeceased by a brother, Curtis Rademacher. Friends may call at HARDISON FUNERAL HOME, 3648 Ransomville Road, Ransomville on Friday from 2 - 4 and 7 - 9 PM. Funeral Services will be held Saturday, April 19, at 11:00 AM in the Exley United Methodist Church of Wilson, 338 Lake St., Wilson, with the Rev. John Loeser officiating. Burial with full Military Honors will follow in North Ridge Cemetery, Church Rd. Town of Cambria. In lieu of flowers, Memorials may be made to Niagara Hospice, 4675 Sunset Dr., Lockport, NY 14094. Please visit www.hardisonfuneralhomes.com for online registry.