Donald Ralph Loader

Donald Ralph Loader, residing in Salina, KS died Wednesday, August 23, 2023, at Presbyterian Manor from Lewy Body Dementia.

Don was born August 2, 1940, in Salina, KS to Ralph and Mary Loader. He was always interested in Art & Design. He grew up in the retail world with his first job working in Loader’s Market, his parents’ grocery store.  

Don married Jean Nieman on August 30, 1969, in Salina. He graduated from Sacred Heart High School in Salina, KS and the Kansas City Art Institute, in Kansas City, MO.  Don was an Interior Designer and worked at Dwight Putnam Interiors, Stiefel’s Department Store, then opened Don Loader Interiors with his wife, Jean.  He provided decorating services to North Central Kansas for more than 20 years.  Don loved gardening, time in his swimming pool, martinis, entertaining, and convertibles. Don was a very loving person; he cherished his many friendships and time spent with his family.  

Don is survived by his wife, Jean Loader, sons, Jim Loader (Michael Chambers), Jon Loader, and grandson, Stephen Loader.  Additional survivors include his sister, Jane Belt (Jerry), nieces and nephews, Kathy Belt, Dan Belt (Pat) and family, Tom Belt (Angie) and family, and special cousin, Betty Yockers.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Mary Loader, and infant son, Stephen Donald Loader.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m., Wednesday, August 30th, at St. Mary’s Queen of the Universe Catholic Church, 230 E. Cloud Street. Burial to follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery. A luncheon will follow at St. Mary’s All Purpose Room. A Rosary will be said at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, August 29th at Ryan Mortuary. The family will be available from 5-7 p.m.  

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to St. Mary Queen of the Universe Catholic Church, 230 East Cloud Street, Salina, KS. Cards may be sent to Jean Loader, 2601 East Crawford Street, Salina, KS 67401.

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