Roll Call Tribute

William Wayne Vader 

December 10, 1978 - January 18, 2026 

William Wayne Vader, age 47, passed away on January 18, 2026. He was born on December 10, 1978, in Alpine, Texas, to Gary and Darnell Vader. Will lived life wholeheartedly as a devoted husband and father. His warmth and friendliness touched everyone he met, but his family was always at the center of his heart.

William was raised in La Vernia, Texas, where he was a proud high school graduate. He went on to attend Texas A&M University in College Station, earning a bachelor's degree in Poultry Science. Following graduation, he began his career with Sanderson Farms, where he worked for five years in upper management. After returning to the La Vernia area, he worked for UPS before moving on to a successful career with J.B. Hunt, holding leadership and account management roles and making a lasting impact on colleagues and clients alike.

On October 19, 2013, William married the love of his life, Kristin Cross. Together they built a beautiful life and welcomed two sons: Bennett and Beauden. William cherished every moment with his family, always eager to lend a hand with projects and activities for Kristin and the boys. He found immense joy in being present for all the milestones and everyday moments of their lives.

William was known for his kindness, strong work ethic, and the positive influence he had on everyone around him. He lived with integrity, generosity, and a love for those closest to him.

William is survived by his wife, Kristin Vader; his sons, Bennett and Beauden; parents, Gary and Darnell Vader; sister, Judy Desmond (Ryan) and their son, Braden Desmond; mother-in-law, Loretta Lange; father-in-law, John Cross, Jr.; brother-in-law, John Cross III; uncles, Keith Vader (Norma) and Alan Kosub(Francie); aunt, Darlene Koehler as well as numerous cousins and extended family members.

He was preceded in passing by his paternal grandparents, Marvin and Dorothy Vader; maternal grandparents, Alfred and Erna Kosub; uncles, Lloyd Kosub, Glenn Kosub and Dennis Koehler and aunts, Rosalie Kosub, Iva Kosub and Myrna Kosub.

The family invites everyone to join them in a Celebration of Life for William on Saturday, February 7, 2026 at Finch Funeral Chapel in La Vernia, Texas, with a visitation from 10:00am to 12:00pm and the Memorial Service begining at 12:00 noon.

He will be remembered not only for his accomplishments, but for the love, laughter, and light he brought into the lives of all who knew him. His legacy of kindness and devotion to family will live on in the hearts of his wife, sons, and all who were blessed to know him.