Fred Mark Ader

Fred Mark Ader, born on June 10, 1963, in Honolulu, Hawaii, passed away on July 11, 2026, in Albuquerque, New Mexico. He is survived by his devoted mother, Melchora Ader; his loving wife, Patricia Ader; his cherished daughter, Nohelani Ader; his beloved son, Keith Ader; and his siblings, Bong Ader, Mely Gazelle, and Philip Ader. Fred was a proud grandfather to Lexie, Isabella, and Ronan Ader.

Fred proudly served in the United States Air Force for 21 years, retiring as a Technical Sergeant (E-6) after a distinguished career dedicated to service, leadership, and integrity. As an Explosive Safety Manager and Munitions Systems Specialist, he was entrusted with overseeing complex weapons systems, safeguarding personnel, and supporting critical Air Force and Department of Defense missions. The discipline, professionalism, and commitment he demonstrated throughout his military career remained the foundation of his life.

Following his retirement from the Air Force, Fred spent seven years at Sandia National Laboratories, where he worked in Explosive Technology and Nuclear Measurement and Accountability, helping ensure the safe handling, security, and accountability of sensitive materials. His commitment to protecting others and serving his country continued throughout his civilian career.

During his military service, Fred became a founding member of the Albuquerque Rebels Volleyball Club (ARVC), helping build the club from its earliest days. Volleyball became one of his greatest passions. He dedicated countless hours to mentoring young athletes and coaches, and was always his dream to see ARVC have a facility of its own. He took immense pride in helping make that dream a reality, creating a place where generations of athletes could learn, compete, and grow. For more than 25 years, Fred served ARVC as a coach, mentor, leader, and facility director, helping shape the lives of thousands of athletes and their families.

Fred later became a Physical Education teacher, where he inspired students to embrace teamwork, healthy living, and a love of sports. He coached both boys and girls for many years, and under his leadership, several teams qualified for the USA Volleyball Junior Nationals, a testament to his dedication to youth athletes.

Fred remained deeply committed to his community through his years of coaching high school athletics and his work with the Bernalillo Youth Sports Commission. He was especially passionate about officiating high school and collegiate volleyball, serving with the NMAA and RMAC. His dedication to mentoring young athletes and supporting the game he loved left a lasting impact on countless players, coaches, and fellow officials.

Fred remained committed to serving others through positions with Sandia National Labs, the New Mexico Workforce Connection, the United States Forest Service, and the local schools, always bringing the same integrity, leadership, and dedication that defined his military service. As a Disabled Veteran Outreach Program Specialist with the New Mexico Workforce Connection, he took great pride in helping veterans overcome employment barriers and successfully transition into civilian careers.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Fred had a wide array of hobbies and interests. He cherished time spent cooking and barbecuing with family and friends and he was an avid collector of Los Angeles Dodgers memorabilia, reflecting his lifelong love of baseball. He enjoyed traveling, engaging in karaoke, dancing, and hanging out with friends and family, bringing joy through his humor and playful antics. Gardening and home improvement projects also brought him great satisfaction, reflecting his love of creating, nurturing, and caring for both his home and the people around him.

He will be remembered for his vibrant spirit, unwavering love of family, and the countless lives he touched as a husband, father, grandfather, veteran, teacher, coach, mentor, official, and friend.

A Funeral Mass celebrating Fred's life will be held on July 28, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. at Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Church, 811 Guaymas Pl NE, Albuquerque, NM 87108. A Celebration of Life reception will follow from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at 4800 Las Lomitas, Albuquerque, NM 87113.

In honor of Fred's Hawaiian roots and vibrant spirit, guests are warmly encouraged to wear Hawaiian or tropical attire to the mass and reception as we celebrate his life together.

Fred was preceded in death by: Federico Ader Sr.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Fred's Paddle out ceremony.
Hawaii Paddle Out and Dodger Tribute