Obituary of Ronald L Rider

Ronald L. Rider

1937 - 2023

Ronald L. Rider of Stettler passed away peacefully on December 14, 2023, at the age of 86 years.

Ronald L. Rider was born in 1937 on the farm near Boss Hill, Buffalo Lake, to Percy and Astrid Rider.

He was raised on the farm and was the oldest of five children.  Ron attended Skybo School and completed his high school at Donalda.

Ron loved farming.  Soon after graduating he joined his parents milking cows and growing grain.  He drove a school bus for a short time to supplement the farm.  Eventually the milk cows were sold, and he raised beef cows and hay until retirement.

Ron was active in the community and involved in many events.  He was a member of beef, dairy and grain 4H Clubs growing up.  An avid ball player, he pitched to and struck out many opposition batters.  He also curled until moving to Stettler in 2017.  He was a member of the Donalda Ag. Society and the Donald Drop In Centre.  He enjoyed nature and the countryside, he was an active duck, goose and deer hunter.

In 1993 Ron married Sophie Rae.  Sadly, Sophie passed away in 1997.  In 2000 he married Florence Howarth.  They lived on the farm until retiring to Stettler.

Ron is survived by his siblings:  Diane Hay, Gary Rider (Sharon), Gail Schoff (Ted) and Dale Rider; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and their families and many dear friends.

Ron is predeceased by parents Percy and Astrid Rider; first wife Sophie Rider in 1997; second wife Flo Rider in 2018; brother-in-law Mel Hay and sister-in-law Linda Rider. 

A Graveside Service will be held on Thursday, December 21, 2023 at 11:00 AM at the Donalda Cemetery, Donalda, Alberta.  A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, December 21, 2023 at 2:00 PM at the Stettler Funeral Home.   

Memorial Donations may be made to the Donalda Agricultural Society.