Obituary of Fred Ryder

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Frederick Arthur Ryder, who passed away on April 30, 2026, at the age of 88, one day after his birthday. His quick wit, love of wordplay, and playful “invisible trumpet” will be fondly remembered.

Originally from Norwich, Norfolk, England, Fred served in the Royal Air Force from 1959 to 1966, where he was instrumental in developing technology that would later contribute to the Concorde. He then settled in Canada in 1966, raising his children in London and Thamesford, where he was an active member of the Optimist Club. He was also the longest-standing member of the Royal Canadian Air Force Association 427 London Wing.

An electrical engineer with a remarkable gift for Mathematics, he dedicated 33 years to the Diesel Division of General Motors, London, where he was respected for his knowledge and steady commitment.

Fred enjoyed a lifelong love of games and sport, excelling at cribbage, bridge, and poker, and also enjoying golf, regular exercise, and fishing. In his youth, he played soccer and helped start a local league, remaining a devoted supporter of Norwich City Canaries throughout his life.

Fred also had a deep love of music, which he passed on to his children, shaping a lifelong appreciation. With a natural gift for Mathematics, he found a similar rhythm in music, where pattern and timing came together naturally.

Known for his quirky sense of humour, warmth, and natural ability to engage with those he met, Fred will be remembered as a man of integrity, kindness, and quiet decency.

He is survived by his wife, Della; his children, Tracy Ryder, Bradley Ryder, and Gail Ryder (Sarah); his granddaughter, Shannon Verkaik (Josh), and cherished great-granddaughter, Kara; his step-son, Gray Mackenzie and his wife, Jennifer, and their children, Anna, Sheldon, Ethan, Charlie, and Tess; Della’s sisters, Patsy, Peggy, and Dolores, and their husbands and families, as well as her cousin, Graham Mahood; and by his former wife, Beryl.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.