Obituary of Michael F. Ryder

Michael F. Ryder, age 64 of Linwood, PA passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family, on December 31, 2020. Mike fought his cancer with courage and determination for 18 months, never wanting to give up. Born to Thomas F. and Helen Patricia (McIntyre) Ryder. Mike was raised in Folsom, PA and graduated from Ridley High School in 1974. After graduation, Mike went onto serve in the Marine Corps from 1974-1978. Mike has resided in Linwood, Pa for the past 7 years and had previously resided in Aston, PA for 20 years. Recently, Mike was a school bus driver for special needs children until his retirement in January, 2020. Mike had often said that his job there was the most rewarding job he ever had. He was known as "Mr. Mike" by his kids, and he loved every child that was in his care, and cherished every hug he received from them. Mike also worked for CA (Computer Associates) for 20 years as a Systems Engineer. He was a long time member of Immaculate Conception of Lourdes Catholic Church in Marcus Hook, PA. He was known as an avid Nascar fan, loved the sport of golf, and enjoyed his many long boat rides with his family in Rehoboth. He had such joy while riding his Harley Davidson with his wife on the back, and riding with friends. Mike's greatest joy was Sunday dinner, spending time with his wife, Susan, their daughters, his sons-in-law, and grandsons; he was so proud of each and every one. Being Poppy to his 2 grandsons Mikey and Devan completed him, they always brought him such joy, and kept him smiling and laughing. In addition to his parents, Mike is preceeded in death by his brother, Tom Ryder. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 40 years, Susan Castagna Ryder, his 3 amazing daughters, Tina Ryder (Steve Malin), Jenn Frederick (Michael), and Katie Ryder Haynes (Brian), 2 grandsons, Michael Frederick and Devan Haynes, sister Noreen Stanomir (Jim), sister-in-law, Nancy Seibert (John), who graciously helped with his care, sister-in-law, Kim Resnick (Ed), brothers-in-law, Vincent Castagna (Teresa), Chris Castagna (Cindy), Dan Castagna, John Castagna (Dusti), as well as many nieces and nephews. A visitation will be held on Sunday January, 17th from 1:30 to 3:00PM at the Pagano Funeral Home, 3711 Foulk Road, Garnet Valley, PA, followed by a Memorial Service at 3:00PM. Livestreaming of the service will begin precisely at 3PM. Please click this link or refresh your screen.

The famliy would like to thank the amazing team at Heartland Hospice for everything they have done during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Autism Speaks in Mike's memory (www.autismspeaks.org). Online condolences may be made by visiting (www.paganofuneralhome.com).