William J. Ryder Jr.

William J. Ryder, 92, of Mansfield, passed away at UH Samaritan of Ashland on Sunday, January 30, 2022.

William was born on July 1, 1929 in Mansfield, Ohio. He was the son of William and Eva (Peterson) Ryder. William retired from Westinghouse after 44 years of dedicated service, and proudly served in the United States Army. Active in his community, William was a member of the First United Methodist Church, Mansfield Liederkranz, and the American Legion. An avid fast-pitch softball player, William played first base for several teams throughout his life, and coached little league baseball. William enjoyed Ohio sports throughout his life, including the Ohio State Buckeyes, the Browns, and especially the Cleveland Indians. He enjoyed golfing with his buddies, and was proud of his left handed swing. He was known for working puzzles with his family; many completed puzzles have been proudly framed.

William leaves behind his children, Linda (Gregg) Gleisinger of Mansfield, Michael (Beverly) Ryder of Lexington, Cheryl A. Ryder of Lexington, Annette Gandert Powers (Dale) of Lexington, and Starla Taylor (Ed Patton) of Mansfield; his grandchildren, Ryan Ryder of Lexington, Nicole (Andrew) White of Mt. Gilead, Eric Gleisinger of Mansfield, and Will (Kayla) Gandert of Jacksonville, FL; his great-grandchildren, Lydia White of Mt. Gilead and Caleb White of Mt. Gilead; and his sister, Mary McKinley of Mansfield. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Ella Mae (Miller) Ryder; his brothers, Edward Ryder and Lester Ryder; his sisters, Velma Hershey, Deloris Condon, Maxine Nicholas, and Norma Williams; and son-in-law, Craig Gandert.

Family and friends may visit from 12:00-2:00 pm on Monday, February 7, 2022 at the Diamond Street Home of Wappner Funeral Directors, 98 S. Diamond Street. Pastor Dave Atkins will officiate the funeral service starting immediately at 2:00 pm. Full military honors will be performed by the Richland County Joint Veterans Burial Squad following the service at the funeral home. William will be laid to rest at Mansfield Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Disabled American Veterans.

The Diamond Street Home of Wappner Funeral Directors is honored to serve the family of William Ryder.

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