Obituaries > Robinson B. Ryder

Rob Ryder of Springfield, January 10, 2006
Posted on Tue, Jan. 17, 2006-Paul Capus

Robinson B. Rider Jr.

Mr. Rider was born in Minneapolis. His father was an Army officer and the family lived in a succession of states and foreign countries. He attended high school in Heidelberg, Germany, and completed his senior year at Springfield High School, Delaware County, where he met his future wife, Jacqueline "Judy" Rider. After graduation, he enlisted in the Army, completed officers training school, and served at bases in the states. He was sent to Vietnam in 1969.

While serving in Da Nang, his tent was hit by a mortar shell and he sustained serious head injuries. He received a Purple Heart and Bronze Star Medal. After recovering, his son Rob said, he persuaded the Army to allow him to go back to active duty, but his injuries caused seizures. He was discharged on disability as a lieutenant in 1972.

For 30 years, Mr. Rider was active with Boy Scout Troop 512 in Springfield. He also served on several scouting committees and was a range master at four National Scout Jamborees in Virginia. He was a recipient of the Boy Scout's Silver Beaver Award. He was a Mason and a member of the Springfield Lions Club.

Until he began using a wheelchair in recent years, Mr. Rider had been an avid hunter, and was a former officer of the Delaware County Field and Stream Club.

In addition to his wife of 46 years and son, he is survived by his mother, Janet L. Rider; another son, Jack; and 11 grandchildren. A daughter, Michelle Donnelley, and sons Josh and Matthew are deceased. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. today at First Presbyterian Church, Summit and Cascade Roads, Springfield. Friends may call at 9 a.m. Memorial donations may be made to Boy Scout Troop 512 c/o Ken Garton, 514 Springview Lane, Springfield, Pa. 19064.