Search by Name

Search by Name

FUNERAL HOME

Koch Funeral Home - State College

2401 S. Atherton Street

State College, Pennsylvania

Charles Rider Obituary

Charles (Chuck) Rider II July 19, 1949 March 28, 2014 Charles "Chuck" Rider II slipped peacefully into the arms of Jesus on Friday, March 28, 2014, at his home surrounded by his immediate family. Chuck was a man who lived for his Lord, his family, his friends, the State College/Penn State community, and his country. He treasured the gift of wonderful parents, Charles and Jeanne Rider; a daughter and son and their spouses, all of whom were very much loved; and seven uniquely special, loving grandchildren. He believed that the blessings of friendship are one of God's greatest gifts to all of us and was a man who opened his heart to everyone. He always said that he felt the presence of God in the presence of his friends. Throughout his illness, God blessed him in countless ways through friends and family members, both near and far. Their encouragement, prayers, cards, visits, emails, phone calls, letters, food and care meant so very much to him and touched his heart each and every day. Chuck asks that we learn from his experience and know that our time and love are the most important and most sought-after gifts we can give anyone. A man larger than life who lived life to its fullest, Chuck didn't let his illness slow him down or compromise what he stood for. He learned only too well that what may appear as valleys in our lives are actually God's mountaintops for teaching us to trust him more fully, helping us to grow spiritually, and drawing us closer as he nurtures our souls. Chuck is survived by a daughter, Kelli Niebauer and her husband, John, and a son Chiz Rider and his wife, Kelli Jeanne; seven grandchildren, J.P., Ashley and Lauren Niebauer and Kaitlin, Chase, Ryan and Brooke Rider; his first love and soul mate, Lois "Linda" Bryan; his beloved companion, Ruth Kocha Jensen; his brother for life, Anthony Assalone and his wife, Barbara Pennella; cousins, whom he loved as siblings; and lifelong friends with whom he celebrated life. Friends will be received from 2 - 4 p.m. and 6 - 8 p.m., on Monday, March 31, 2014, at Koch Funeral Home, 2401 S. Atherton St. State College. Funeral Service will be at 11 a.m., on Tuesday, April 1, 2014, at the State College Assembly of God, 2201 University Dr., State College, with Captain Chuck Neidemeyer officiating. Burial will be in Centre County Memorial Park. Memorial contributions may be made to the Salvation Army, 2603 E. College Ave., Suite G, State College, PA 16801 or to Home Nursing Agency Healthcare, 201 Chestnut Ave., Altoona, PA 16601. Arrangements are under the care of Koch Funeral Home, State College. Online condolences and signing of the guest book may be entered at ww.kochfuneralhome.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Centre Daily Times on Mar. 30, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for Charles Rider

Not sure what to say?





Rosalyn Holenchik

March 29, 2021

Chuck was one of the finest man/gentleman I have ever known. He was a wonderful person to work for and such a good friend, who carried so much about everyone. Thank you Chuck for allowing me to be one of the persons you hired. Rest in peace with God's love.

Richard Porter

March 23, 2020

Hard to believe it has been six years since we lost Chuck. Jeanne and I often think of him and what a good and kind friend he was.

Gary and Elaine Reed

March 23, 2020

Chuck always was a "happy friend", just like his smiling picture

Teri Jordan

March 23, 2020

May God bless you and your family in this time of remembering what a wonderful Father, friend, God fearing man he lived. He helped so many. We miss you.

Beth Rappaport

March 23, 2019

Will continue to miss your presence here on earth until I see your smile in Glory. You are not forgotten dear cousin!

Rick Snyder

October 15, 2014

I just now heard of Chuck's passing and I am both shocked and saddened. We were close friends in high school and college and often attended church services in Altoona together. I can only repeat what has been said before - Chuck was a genuinely friendly person who deeply cared about his friends and family. His smile lit up a room and his sense of humor was legendary.
While Chuck remained in PA, I moved away, but I would make it a point to visit Chuck on those occasions when I returned to State College. He would always greet me with that big smile and a big handshake. He would talk about how proud he was of his children.
Chuck was a good man; a man of faith who never wavered from his beliefs and lived his life accordingly. He will be missed.

JP Niebauer

April 29, 2014

Chuck was one of the best grandfathers a kid could ask for. Chuck may have passed but our memories will live on

Joe Dilkes

April 3, 2014

Chuck cared so muchfor people and was always there to offer help to. I was very proud that he called me a friend.
He will still guide us from heaven.
Joe Dilkes

Marliene Froke

April 3, 2014

Chuck's bright smile was infectious, and he brightened the day wherever he was. He was a good and kind person whose generosity extended from his family to the community and beyond. He will be missed by so many. May his family be sustained by the memories of a lifetime as they face these difficult times.

John Krumrine

April 3, 2014

I will always remember Chuck from my days working with him at Rider's and hanging around the car lot. He was a great man who loved the Lord and wasn't afraid to show it. We were all blessed who knew him.

Chuck Croft

April 2, 2014

We are saddened to hear of the passing of Chuck.~Many great memories with Chuck and the family. We will charish those forever.~In our prayers, Linda, Chiz, Kelly and Family.~Love and hugs, Kathy & Chuck

Sue & Dick Mascolo

April 2, 2014

we send our Sympthy and Prayers. Chuck was a good friend to us as well as many other in our area. State College was a better place because of his caring for others. He will be missed by our community. God be with his family at this sad time.

Jeanne and Richard Porter

April 2, 2014

Dear Kelli, Chiz and family -

We are traveling and just heard that Chuck had finally gone to his rest. We called and left a message for him the day before we left, and had a terrible feeling that it might be our last farewell. You can take great pride not only in your father's life, but in the incredibly brave way that he confronted death and dealt with adversity at its end. Our love and prayers are with you, and Linda and Ruth.

Paul Mueller

April 2, 2014

We are very sorry to hear of his loss. As a high-school classmate, he was a friendly and generous fellow -- traits that continued to characterize him his entire life.

Lynda and Cliff Yorks

April 2, 2014

We were so sad to hear that Chuck passed away. We were such close friends to his wonderful parents. Our deepest sympathy to his children and grandchildren, He was such a kind man.
Our Deepest Sympathy

Wynn Meyers

April 2, 2014

I knew Chuck thru Rider's where I have gotten my cars. He was a great business man and someone who was interested in the community here and across the nation. He will be missed and thoughts are with the family.

The Dealership Gang

April 2, 2014

Sincere condolences to the Rider Family. Chuck always had a huge smile, friendly hello, and never missed an opportunity to stop and speak to his employees - treating us like family. When you heard his laugh throughout the dealership you knew you played a joke on someone or someone played a joke on him. He will truly be missed by all who had the pleasure of meeting him. RIP Chuck until we reunite with you in heaven! God Bless.

Carla Proby

April 1, 2014

Dear Chiz and Kelli and family,
Losing a parent is a hard thing for us to do. But as people who love the creator knows death is not the ending but a being for them. My prayers are with your family and my blessings. Btw he is in good company my mother helped welcome him home .
God's blessings a
Pond you and yours,
Carla M. Price-Proby

Don Francke

April 1, 2014

Lois, I'm so very sorry to learn about Chuck's passing. I feel fortunate to have seen how strong Chuck was in everything he did. I send my prayers to you and your wonderful children. May God bless you.

Hap, Pat & Ken Hull

April 1, 2014

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Rider family during this very difficult time.

Teri Jordan

April 1, 2014

Dear Lois, Kelly, Chiz and rest of his beautiful family,
The service today was beautiful from the the beautiful trumpet solos to the lovely video. The pictures of his trophy that he proudly told of winning on the last family vacation made me smile. Also thinking of how much he loved his family and his grandchildren and loved talking about you. His laughing and smiling and kidding with that generous spirit made the room light up wherever he was.
We know he is with the other part of his family and having fun until you will be rejoined with him. I enjoyed our conversations and friendship that we had and he will always be a special friend in my heart. Thanks for your friendship that allowed me to get to know you too. May God and Jesus be having fun with him now until we all join that family of believers. With his servant heart he probably already has started volunteering there too. God Bless and may you find the peace he is experiencing now. God Bless, Teri

Nance Glantz

April 1, 2014

Our condolences go out to the family of Chuck. I graduated with Chuck and played in the marching band with him.
Nance and John Glantz ~ Winter Garden, FL & Saxton, PA

Louis Dejoie

March 31, 2014

Chuck was a very fine and generous man. I will miss him and remember him fondly. It was an honor to have known him.

March 31, 2014

Dear Lois, Kelly, and Chiz,

We will always remember your dear one as a true brother in the Lord. He always "beamed" that big smile that would instantly make one feel that he was happy to be in your presence. Now, he has joined that heavenly throng, that will be there to welcome each of us "home". He is now enveloped in the love and peace of our heavenly Father. The song, "We Shall Behold Him" is resounding through heavens gates.
Blessings and love,
Gary and Elaine Reed

Lois Hassinger

March 31, 2014

It is not easy to say goodbye to our loved ones, but the greatest joy is knowing they will be there to greet us when we arrive. May GOD bless you Rider Family in your time of sorrow.

Carolyn Fry

March 31, 2014

We just heard... So sorry for your loss! It's hard to see such great people go through such hard times! Our thoughts and prayers are with you!

Kenzie Cameron

March 31, 2014

Kelli, Chiz and Lois:
I wanted to let you know that I am thinking about you and the entire family at this time. May you remember all of the wonderful memories that you made throughout your lives with Chuck and may those memories grant you peace during this time. I have many fond memories - including Marching Band and graduation night 1988. Wishing you love and peace -

Bob McNichol

March 31, 2014

Chuck was truly one of the area's nice guys. I always enjoyed talking with him. I know that he is in a great place right now, but will miss him anyhow. Blessings on all of you family members!

Richard Garman

March 31, 2014

So sorry for your loss. Chuck is a great guy and will be missed by so many. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.

Pam Bair

March 31, 2014

Linda, know that I would be there for you if I could. I'm keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.

Cim Besecker

March 31, 2014

Rider Family-
I had the pleasure of attending several events thanks to Chuck. He was a good man, he did wonderful things for the community. Thoughts and Prayers being sent.

Steve and Gayle Barnes

March 31, 2014

Dear Kellie and Chiz, We are away and heard of your father's passing . He was a genuinely good and kind man. He fought the good fight with grace and dignity. Although we are unable to attend the memorial service,we hold you and your family close to us today. God Bless You. Steve and Gayle Barnes

Maryann Allison

March 31, 2014

Kelli, Chiz, your Spouses, Chuck's Beloved Grandchildren, and all the Rider family; my thoughts and prayers are with you. Chuck was a wonderful and gracious man, father, grandfather, friend and most of all, Servant of the Lord. May you all find Peace and Comfort in the Light of the eternal love he has for all of you.

Lee and Cristy Wise

March 31, 2014

So sorry for your loss. We will keep you all in prayer. Wish we could be there but know all our love and friendship is coming your way. God bless you all. Lee and Cristy Wise.

Beth Vogt

March 31, 2014

I will always remember Chuck as a kind, caring man and am so thankful that I got the chance to get to know him. My thoughts and prayers to his family and friends.

J.R. and Patricia

March 30, 2014

We never know where life's journey will take us or who we will meet along the way, but by God's grace Chuck was able to touch and make a difference in many lives. Chuck was honest, fair, and cordial to everyone he met. During his courageous fight Chuck still had a smile on his face and took the time to say hello. May you find comfort in knowing that your father and grandfather made a difference in many lives and that he will never be forgotten but by God's grace one day again you will be reunited with him in Heaven! For now hold tight to your memories and cherished times together. Chuck always spoke about you Kelli and Chiz and was proud to be your father! God Bless

March 30, 2014

Dear John,Kellie and Family, I was sorry to hear about the passing of your father.I don't believe I ever met him,but he sounds like he was a wonderful father and friend to all who new him.My sincere condolences.Kathy Davidson-Stanton

Jackie Hess

March 30, 2014

To My Dearest Chuck!
I will miss you so much and love you forever!!
See you on the "Other Side."
I'll always remember what you always told me!!!
Honey

Darlene Prough Wilt

March 30, 2014

What a pleasure it was to have know Chuck for over 55 yrs. He has been such and inspiration to our famiy!How could we ever thank him for his kind, compassionate and caring heart.He will be forever missed by our family.So happy dear friend that you are free from pain. Looking forward to the day when we are all united forever!We will continue to pray for his sweet family.

March 30, 2014

Chiz..Kelly and family..I was so sorry to hear of your dad's passing but knowing he is in a better place and not suffering anymore is a blessing. He surely was a caring man and loved his family and friends. Prayers go out to you and your family..God Bless ..Beverly Brooks

jim and patty simco

March 30, 2014

chuck was a good frend and a good boss. god bless him and his family.

Rose Holenchik

March 30, 2014

I appreciated and enjoyed working for Chuck in Philipsburg Chysler, and Chester Hill Ford Dealerships. He was a very generous, courteous and above all a well mannered gentleman whom all respected. God Bless him, now that is suffering is finished and he can live happy in the arms of our Lord for eternity. I am proud to say he was a friend. My sympathy to his family, and especially to Kelli, who I knew the best.
God Bless from a friend

Bob Ascah

March 30, 2014

The World is better for Chuck having been here. I will miss my Friend.

Bob Ascah

Bob Ascah

March 30, 2014

The World is a better place for Chuck having passed through it. I will miss my Friend.

Bob Ascah

Dennis Prough

March 30, 2014

Linda and I are really going to miss, our life long brother. We Loved him dearly. We will continue to pray for all of you.

George & Bev Morgan

March 30, 2014

We knew Chuck for so many years and always enjoyed any time we spent with him. A wonderful man who will be so missed by everyone. Our prayers to all of his family.

Doran Dreibelbis

March 30, 2014

Kelly, Chiz, Lois and Families,
Our deepest sympathy on the passing of Chuck. We will always remember the good times at the dealerships, and the fun we had at many of the ministry concerts. May God give all of you strength and peace knowing that your Dad is at rest and at peace.
Sincerely,
Doran & Jo Dreibelbis

R Thomas Berner

March 30, 2014

If ever a man made the world a better place, it was Chuck. His community service was extraordinary and giving. He will be missed by many, but his example will live on in our memories.

William DeGarmo

March 29, 2014

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

Beth Rappaport

March 29, 2014

Sent: Sunday, January 13, 2013

My Dearest Chis,

I am writing this letter to share my heart with you because I know I will not be able to speak the words.

For as long as I can remember - my life has included memories of you. Not just ‘memories' but beautiful, loving and fun filled memories. There is not one bad memory in them all.

I remember fishing in Bald Eagle Creek and always being the one who dumped the worm can in the water. I remember running through the sprinkler at Nanny and Pap's as young children – you always in your underwear. I remember fun filled, sunny days at Lamoka Lake and believing (as only a young girl can) that we would be married one day despite the fact that we were cousins. I remember that you were the one that helped me get a job at Penn State and buy my first car when I was newly divorced and had two small children. I remember our special visit in New Orleans and our trail ride through the Rockies near Cody, Montana. And so many wonderful memories of time spent at the farm. But my sweetest memory of all was the day that Nanny died. We were together at her side when we heard the train whistle and we both knew it was Pap. Remember – as painful as that day was, we were content because we knew her destiny and we understood she longed to go.

I have the same peace and assurance for your journey. I know you will see heaven and all of glory and when I get there our relationship will be complete again. But for now, my life journey will miss you terribly. I can't imagine not making memories with you.

I want you to know how much I love you – have always loved you and will always love you. Your courage has been unspeakable – your love never faltering. You hold a very special and precious place in my heart.

So, I will look for you when I get to ‘the gate' – just don't hit me with a bucket of cold water – but some how I think you will!

Love you so much. See you on the other side.

3/29/14 - You fought an amazing fight my dear cousin and now by the grace of God your journey is complete. I know you are just a breath away and that I will see you again!

Showing 1 - 52 of 52 results

Make a Donation
in Charles Rider's name

Memorial Events
for Charles Rider

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

Koch Funeral Home - State College

2401 S. Atherton Street, State College, PA 16801

How to support Charles's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Charles Rider's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more