William C. Ryder

Born September 6, 1918 in Chatham to Richard and Rebecca Ryder, Bill attended Chatham schools, followed by radio school in Boston.

He served in the Merchant Marines during World War II and worked for most of his life as a radio technician at RCA Global/WCC at their transmission station in South Chatham. Upon his retirement he worked for several years part-time for Ryder & Wilcox, Inc.

Bill lived his last few years at the Woodlands in Brewster, along with his brother David until Dave’s death last year. Bill was predeceased by brothers Richard Allen and David, sisters Arethusa (Toots) Hutchings and Emily Boyce.

Bill had many interests; he was a ham radio enthusiast and was a long-time supporter of the Chatham Marconi Maritime Museum; Chatham history, New England lighthouses and genealogy were his focuses. He belonged to St. Martin’s Masonic Lodge and was a 50 year member.

He is survived by daughter Jean Howes (Don) of West Chatham, son Terry Ryder (Judy Griffin) of Brewster; grandchildren, Brian and Jeremy Forgeron, Griffin and Joshua Ryder and Abigail Griffin-Ryder; 2 great-granddaughters Vivienne and Maisie. He had many nieces and nephews who meant a lot to him.

Memorial services will be held September 13 at 11am at The United Methodist Church in Chatham. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Chatham Marconi Maritime Museum at Box 421, North Chatham MA 02650. For online condolences, please visit www.nickersonfunerals.com.