Kenneth David Ryder, 72, of Ocklawaha passed away peacefully at home Thursday, October 13th. He is survived by his loving wife Terri, his son Matt {Kelli} Ryder, son Wade Ryder, daughter Staci King, grandsons Cody (Sarah) King, Chase (Briana) King, granddaughter Kennedy Ryder, brother Richard {Barbara} Ryder, and sister Cecelia Meyer. Kenneth was a doting great grandfather to Rowan, Cade, Colton, and Cash. Kenneth is preceded in death by father Robert Ryder, brother Stephen Ryder, and mother Ann Prosser Ryder.
Kenneth was born in Miami, FL and attended primary school there until relocation to Ocala, FL where he was a Graduate of Ocala High School. He was a dedicated businessman and tradesman in the Tampa Bay area and a business owner in Ocala until retirement in the mid 90’s.
Kenneth was a decorated United States Marine and proud Veteran of the Vietnam War; receiving the Purple Heart and Vietnam Service medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Meritorious Unit Citations, and designated as Rifle Marksman.
Kenneth was an avid bowhunter, outdoorsman, and fisherman throughout his life and passed on his vast knowledge to younger generations whose impression lasts to this day. His expertise was only matched by his patience and willingness to share his knowledge and love of the woods with family and friends, no one more so than his devoted wife, Terri, who similarly shared the same passion and love of the outdoors as her beloved soulmate. He loved deeply and was a loyal confidant who passed on a lifetime of wisdom to his loved ones.