1933 – 2015

FREEPORT — Kenneth Alfred Ryder, 82, of Freeport died unexpectedly on Tuesday, Sept. 22, in Lewiston.

He was born in Lisbon Falls on June 1, 1933, the oldest child of Zona (Smith) and Harold Ryder. He was educated in Pownal schools and graduated from Freeport High School. He served in the U.S. Army for two years and during this time, he married Barbara J. Libby of Freeport in 1953 and together, they had a daughter.

Ken had a very strong work ethic and at various times worked at the Freeport Mobil station and Bath Iron Works, but most noteworthy was his lifelong work in shoe manufacturing. He was at work when he took ill Tuesday and passed from this life to the next, just the way he wanted — working. He was never at a loss for something to do and could be found tinkering in his shop and could fix just about anything. He generously gave of his time and talent.

In earlier years, Ken especially enjoyed hunting and had a number of “big bucks” to his credit. He was a talented waterskier and proved it by staying dry. He also enjoyed bowling, horseshoes, golf, snowmobiling and a good ride on his Gold Wing.

A tragic fire in 1977 left him with third-degree burns over 60 percent of his body. His determination — or stubbornness — depending who you speak to, helped him to recover and return to work. He was a lifetime member of the Freeport Fire Department. Riding his lawnmower and gardening helped Ken to keep moving in later years.

Ken will be remembered for being a devoted husband and his attentiveness to Barbara, especially these past two years. He could be “set in his ways,” but he was steadfast. He will also be remembered for being a good big brother and a man of his word. He is already greatly missed.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Barbara Ryder of Freeport; his daughter, Diane Dennison and her husband, Michael, of Freeport; his three grandchildren, Kenneth Dennison of Brunswick, Russell Dennison of New York, and Roberta Navarro and her husband, Jake, of Massachusetts; his brother, Calvin Ryder and his wife, Wilma, of Linneus; his sister, Millie Robinson of Freeport; his sister, Sandra Randall and her husband, George, of Pownal; his sister-in-law, Virginia Allen and her husband, Nate, of Freeport; as well as many, many nieces and nephews. The friendship of Helen and Sharon Fournier, Eugene and Linda Davenport and William and Vicki Lary have been especially meaningful.

Please visit www.lindquistfuneralhome.com to view a video collage of Ken’s life and to share condolences, memories and tributes with his family.

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