Bernard W. Ryder

“Bernie” 84, went home to the Lord on Easter Sunday, April 4th, surrounded by his adoring family.

He is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Janet (nee Ortiz), his daughters Terri Mooney of Harleysville, Elaina (Steve) Jurecki of San Ramon, CA, Jeanette Braun of Ambler, sons Jim (Joanne) of Perkasie, and BJ (Pam) of Harleysville, 12 grand-children, sister-in-law Dunia Ortiz, and sister Ruth Faralli. He was preceded in death by his sisters Ethel and Margaret, and his brother Alfred.

“Red” Ryder fought his way across the Pacific in WWII, serving in the US Navy’s elite Underwater Demolition Teams (Frogmen) seeing action at Leyte, Okinawa and Iwo Jima. Bernie declined a career in the Navy, instead choosing to graduate with a bachelor’s degree from Miami University of Florida, working in industrial and electronic sales during his career.

His true calling was that of a father, raising his family in Fort Washington. The love and guidance he gave to all five of his children will never be forgotten. He had enduring and special bonds with each of his children and grand-children, a testament to his love for family, his personality, and his understanding of what is best in a father. His quick wit and easy smile will be sorely missed by all (as will his winning picks at the horse track). WE LOVE YOU POP!

Relative and friends are invited to call after 9:00AM on Thursday at St. Anthony of Padua Church 259 Forest Ave Ambler. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30AM by Rev. John T. Lyons. Interment will be private.

 Remembrances in his name to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, 2004 Sproul Road, Suite 208, Broomall, PA 19008 would be appreciated.