Obituary of Russell Ryder

Russell H. Ryder, a Veteran of World War II, passed away at the Methuen Health & Rehabilitation Center in Methuen on Sunday afternoon, June 2, 2013. The beloved husband of the late Dorothy E. (Giles) he was 86 years old. Russ was born, raised and educated in Lowell. He was the son of the late Herbert and Esther Ryder. He was a veteran of World War II serving his country in the United States Army. Russ was the recipient of the Army of Occupation Medal, Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal, Good Conduct Medal and World War II Victory Medal. Russ worked as a Truck Mechanic for B & M Railroad as well as a Technician for W. R. Grace. He was an avid sports fan enjoying college football and the Boston Red Sox. He met his wife Dorothy in 1967 and they were married for 46 years before her death in 2011. Russ will be remembered as a quiet and humble man who loved his wife and family. Russ was the beloved husband of the late Dorothy E. (Giles). He was the loving and proud stepfather of Dawn Donovan & her husband Jim of Hudson, NC, Hope Widtfeldt of Northborough, Wayne Widtfeldt & his wife Patty of Burlington, Dot Lane & her husband Dan of Sandown, NH, Ross Widtfeldt of Burlington, and the late W. George “Woody” Widtfeldt. Brother of Albert & his wife Terry of Westford and the late William and Kenneth. Also survived by 14 grandchildren, 25 great grandchildren and 2 great- great grandchildren. Funeral Services will be held at the Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home, 43 Winn St., BURLINGTON (Exit 34 off Rt. 128, Woburn side) on Thursday, June 6 at 11 a.m. Relatives & friends respectfully invited to attend. Visiting hours Wednesday 4-8 p.m. Interment in Pine Haven Cemetery, Burlington.