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It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of William John (Bill) Ryder on June 1, 2024, in his 94th year, at Sunnybrook Palliative Care in Toronto. He leaves behind a void that will be profoundly felt by his beloved wife of over 54 years, Elena (nee Santiago).
A gentleman of the highest order, Bill will forever be deeply missed by his children, Gloria Ryder (Jeff Mitscherling) and Helen Rendl (Steve), and his three adored grandchildren, Kate, Michael, and David.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Jane Ryder, and his five brothers, Terry, Dick, Dermot, Eamon, and Larry.
Born in Dublin, Ireland in 1930, Bill embarked on a lifelong journey marked by selflessness and an unwavering commitment to others. Following his graduation, he dedicated himself to teaching English and related subjects in Trinidad, the United Kingdom, and Toronto, imparting knowledge and shaping the lives of countless students.
In 1969, William married Elena, the love of his life, and together they embarked on a new chapter in Canada. Bill’s teaching career continued at Neil McNeil High School in Scarborough, where he shared his knowledge and love for the English language with generations of students.
In 1980, Bill became the Head of Guidance at Neil, where he made a significant impact. In fact, his dedication and exceptional skills in developing guidance programs for Ontario schools earned him a special award. Even in retirement, which he embraced in 1992, Bill continued to utilize his guidance skills to serve the community. He selflessly devoted his time to working with recent immigrants in Toronto, providing them with counsel and support. After relocating to Guelph in 1999, Bill extended his generosity by volunteering at the Evergreen Seniors Centre and the Homewood Mental Health Centre, offering his compassion and care to those in need.
While Bill was proud of his accomplishments, his true joy resided in the warmth of his family. He cherished the unwavering love and care of his devoted wife, Elena, and was grateful for the ongoing support of his daughters, Gloria and Helen. His heart swelled with pride as he witnessed the growth and burgeoning talents of his gifted grandchildren, Kate, Michael, and David.
As Bill reflected upon his rich and fulfilling life, he was eternally grateful for the 40 years he spent as an educator, shaping young minds, and the subsequent 30 years of active retirement that allowed him to engage in his passions for poetry, reading and travel.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate and dedicated palliative caregivers at Sunnybrook Hospital and Temmy Latner Centre, especially Dr. Walji and Dr. Howe, for their kind and compassionate care during Bill’s final months.
In remembrance of Bill’s life and legacy, the family kindly requests that donations be made in his memory to the Sunnybrook Foundation (Palliative Care Unit), allowing his spirit of compassion and care to be perpetuated in helping others. Please note that the family has planned a private funeral service to commemorate and celebrate their beloved Bill.
2024
Morley Bedford Funeral Services Ltd
Death notice for the town of: Toronto, Province: Ontario
death notice William John Bill Ryder
obituaries notice William John Bill Ryder
We offer our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of William John Bill Ryder and hope that their memory may be a source of comfort during this difficult time. Your thoughts and kind words are greatly appreciated.
