JAMES RYDER, 84, passed away Thursday, Jan. 5, 2017. Born Sept. 12 1932, he was the son of the late George and Mary Ryder. James graduated from South Side High School. Upon graduating, he joined the U.S. Air Force and served as a jet mechanic. James worked as a firefighter with the Fort Wayne Fire Department for 27 years, retiring in 1987. James enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, fishing, and carpentry. Surviving are his daughter, Elizabeth (Shawn) Patterson; grandchildren, Sophia and Tony Patterson; and brothers, Paul and Joseph Ryder. He was preceded in death by his brother, Norbert Ryder.
