Richard Ryder

Richard Douglas Ryder

Hyde Park-After a lengthy illness and surround by loved ones, Richard Douglas Ryder passed away peacefully in his home in Hyde Park on Wednesday, August 31, 2016.

Richard is survived by his wife of 58 years, Pamela Crosby Ryder and their children, Douglas Ryder and his wife, Annette; Mary Ryder and Donna Poitras; Heidi Ryder-Baker and Gary Baker; Heather Ryder and Holly (Ryder) Hawkins. He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren, Eliza Fitzgerald, Ana (Ryder) Bierce and husband, Joseph; Nicholas Haslam and wife, Carmen; Kyrstle Ryder, Steven Ryder and wife, Beth; Tucker Courchaine, Julia Ryder and Alexander Larson. He also leaves behind 3 great-grandchildren, Ava, Alexander and newborn, Aksel. Richard is also survived by a brother, David Ryder and sisters, Suzanne (Ryder) Linehan and Julie Ryder.

Richard was born at his parent's home in Eastham, Massachusetts on May 25, 1939. He was the son of Franklin Wilson Ryder and Hazel (Fulcher) Ryder, both of Eastham, MA. Richard graduated from Orleans High School where he excelled in academics and sports. He was an All-Star in soccer and ran track, where he set a track record that was only broken a few short years ago!

Richard was above all things, a hard worker and a Jack-of-all-trades. He first began working with his father as a builder at a tender age of 12. After high school and working with his dad for a few years, he was hired by a building company and began traveling extensively to build "clean rooms" for the government and private businesses. As the family grew, he decided to stay in Massachusetts where he worked as a Prudential Insurance agent. A vacation to Vermont made him fall in love with the land, the people and a desire to farm. The family moved to VT in 1969 and Richard began farming along with starting a successful career as a builder. He continued working until a year or so before his passing.

Richard loved to play cards of all types, but most especially cribbage. He taught many of his children, grandchild and friends to play his beloved game. Richard also greatly enjoyed fishing, watching NASCAR and helping his children work on their homes.

As per Richard's request, there will not be a funeral. He will lay beside his parents in the Ryder family plot in Eastham, Massachusetts.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Lamoille, Home Health and Hospice, 54 Farr Avenue, Morrisville, VT 05661. We can't thank them enough for all the wonderful care and consideration they provided to Richard and his family.

Faith Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made by visiting faithfh.net.