Judge Robert A. Nader

Robert A. Nader, 90, prominent Northeastern Ohio judge, legislator, and attorney, died March 15, 2019 at Continuing Health Solutions at The Ridge. Born and raised in Warren, Ohio, in 1953 he founded Nader and Nader, Attorneys, with Paul G. Nader, his brother and colleague throughout their careers at the Trumbull County Bar.

Robert married Nancy M. Veauthier of Youngstown in 1975. Nancy was a highly supportive partner in his political career. “Bob was the best thing that ever happened in my life. He was kind, loving, supportive, and an inspiration to me. I will miss him.”

As an attorney and politician Robert Nader was a champion for all the citizens of Trumbull County. He lived according to principles that characterize justice, compassion, and integrity. He reflected his commitments as a citizen, a family member, and a Christian.

A lifelong proud resident of Warren, Robert was born March 31,1928 to Nassef and Emily Nader of 588 E. Market St. The Naders are of Maronite Lebanese heritage. Bob’s elementary education was at St. Mary’s School. He and his first grade classmates have continued to meet together as recently as last year. Nader graduated from Warren G. Harding H. S., Class of 1946. At Harding he was a scholar-athlete in several sports who is particularly remembered for his performance in the Warren-Massillon and -Canton McKinley football games of 1944-45. Nader was recognized as an all-Ohio end for his play—“Nobody gets around Bob Nader’s end.” He went on to compete in football at Ohio State, the U. S. Army (Fort Bliss), and Western Reserve University. He had a lifelong interest in all sports, especially golf.

Robert A. Nader volunteered for service in the U. S. Army from 1946-1948. He then began studies at Western Reserve University (Adelbert College), culminating in B.A. and LL.B. degrees. By 1960 Nader was among the leaders of major political reform on Warren City Council, including as president pro tem. In 1971 he was elected to the Ohio House of Representatives for the first of six terms that led to his chairing that body’s Judiciary Committee.

As a legislator Robert Nader has left a legacy of improvements for life in Trumbull County including, for example, the Juvenile Justice Center,  the Children’s Rehabilitation Center, the South Street improvement project and the Route 5 by-pass. On behalf of the people of Ohio he sponsored reform legislation in consumer affairs and other areas that affect daily life and the judiciary. One would never see him without a State of Ohio flag pin on his lapel.

Assuming the position of Judge, Trumbull County Court of Common Pleas in 1983, Robert Nader eventually oversaw that court as presiding judge until his designation in 1991 as Judge, 11th District Court of Appeals, a jurisdiction including five NE Ohio counties. By assignment, Judge Nader also served on the Ohio Supreme Court. He was a jurist respected for his fairness, knowledge of the law, and relentless work ethic.

During more than 50 years as an attorney and judge in Trumbull County, Robert Nader served the community through active participation in the Family Service Association, the Law Library Association, K of C, Elks, the Court of Appeals Judges Association, the City of Warren Police and Fire Pension Boards, etc. Nader’s work toward justice and reform has been recognized by awards from the American Arbitration Association, the Warren Area Board of Realtors, Kent State University Trumbull Campus, the Children’s Rehabilitation Center, Warren G. Harding H. S. Distinguished Alumni Hall of Fame and Sports Hall of Fame, and the Ohio State and Trumbull County (past president) Bar Associations.

Trumbull New Theatre held special meaning for Judge Nader. He was involved in procuring TNT’s present site, served as president, and participated in many shows. He closed his acting career in “Private Lives” in 1988.

The Honorable Robert Nader is survived by his dear wife, Nancy, his sister-in-law, Sylvia T. Nader of Warren, eleven nieces and nephews, twenty grand-nieces and nephews, and their eight children. Thomas C. Nader, a nephew, is partner at Nader and Nader law firm in Warren. Judge Nader’s life was also enriched by his in-law family including sister-in-law Sally (Dr. Anthony) Sobota of North Lima OH, and her daughters Shirley (Robert) Neher of  Ellsworth OH and Susan (David) Klacik of Canfield OH, and their children.

Judge Nader was preceded in death by his parents; three sisters, Rachel Farrah, Silver Spring MD, Louise Khourey, Canton OH, and Genevieve Shaker, Niles OH; and two brothers, Joseph and Paul, both of Warren.

The family would like to thank the staff at Continuing Health Care Solutions at the Ridge. Their kindness and caring made Robert’s last days peaceful and comfortable. Also, thanks to Patrick Huly, DDS, and Vijay Behari, M.D., and their staffs.

Family and friends may call from 4:30-7:00 p.m., Friday March 22 and 9:00-9:30 a.m., Saturday March 23 at Peter Rossi & Son Memorial Chapel, 1884 North Road in Warren OH. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday March 23 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church 301 High St. in Warren. Interment will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery. Father John Jerek, vicar for clergy, Catholic Diocese of Youngstown, will officiate.

Contributions may be made to Trumbull New Theatre, 5883 Youngstown-Warren Rd., Niles, OH 44446 or the Warren G. Harding H. S. Sports Hall of Fame, P. O. Box 1444, Warren, OH 44482 in memory of Robert A. Nader.

A quote from Robert sums up his life: “My parents provided me with a strong moral background and the inspiration to improve. I will never feel that I have achieved success and thus may continue to improve.” Bob, your journey is over and your mission completed. Godspeed.

Family and friends may visit www.peterrossiandsonfh.com to view this obituary, sign the guestbook, and send condolences to Judge Robert Nader’s family.  

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