Joseph Willard Ryder, 95, Topeka, passed away on Tuesday, Oct. 29, 2019, at Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne. He was born on April 24, 1924, the son of Paul and Grace (Stith) Ryder in Jonesboro.

On Sept. 9, 1986, he married Velda Rheinheimer; she survives.

Other survivors include, four children, Rickey Joe Ryder of Alexandria; Linda (Rick) Holford of Alexandria; Kelly Joe (Mike) Barsha of Gas City; and Joseph Willard (Kelly) Ryder Jr. of Roanoke; four step-children, Carrie (Kevin) Lambright of Shipshewana; Elaine (Richard) Booth of Granger; Gary (Nona) Yoder of Topeka; and Angela (Tom) Kramer of South Bend; a sister, Mary Smith of Marion; along with numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and four siblings, Howard Ryder, Edward Ryder, Melba Bishop, and Pauline Webb.

He graduated from LaFountaine High School in 1943. He served his country honorably during WWII in the United States Marines and was awarded two Purple Hearts and a Silver Star. Mr. Ryder was a heavy equipment operator for Reith & Riley many years and later drove semi across the country as an owner operator. He also worked for Frick Farm Services for over ten years and hauled amish. Joe never really retired. He enjoyed woodworking and loved crossword puzzles.

A funeral service will be held in Joe Ryder’s honor at 3 p.m., Friday, Nov. 1, at Yeager Funeral Home, 1589 Lincolnway South; Ligonier, IN 46767. Pastor Harold Gingerich will officiate.

Family and friends will be received from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. prior to the service at Yeager Funeral Home.

A private committal service will take place at a later date in Marion.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the West Noble American Legion Post 243, 100 S. Main St., Ligonier, IN 46767.

Yeager Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.