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NORTH MANCHESTER – Rita Rae Rider, 58, lifelong resident of Sidney, passed away April 13, 2024, at the Lutheran Hospital of Indiana in Fort Wayne.
Born Oct. 26, 1965, in Warsaw, Rita was the daughter of the late Robert E. and Donnabelle Hudson Rider.
A graduate from Whitko High School class of 1984, Rita loved the simple things in life. She relished her time planting flowers and gardening around her home. Rita, an employee at Medartis Inc., for many years, was a vibrant soul filled with love for sports, particularly IU basketball, New York Yankees baseball and Notre Dame football. She treasured her vacations in sunny New Smyrna Beach, Fla., reveling in the warmth with a toes-in-the-sand bliss. Her excursions weren't complete without indulging in her favorite cuisine at Blackbeard's Restaurant.
Family held a special place in Rita's heart, as she enjoyed gathering for birthdays and holidays, whipping up delicious deviled eggs and macaroni and cheese for everyone to savor. She was a proud aunt and sister to her family.
The loving memory of Rita Rae Rider will be forever cherished by her brother, Ron (Ann) Rider, Columbia City; sisters, Rhonda (Tim) Swaidner, Roanoke; and Rachel Rider, Warsaw; nieces and nephews: Logan (Jamie) Swaidner, Huntington; Tyler (Kylie Spangle) Swaidner, North Manchester; Mary (Ryan) Shelton, Warsaw; Monique East, Warsaw; and Courtney Creamer, Warsaw; great-nieces and nephews: Aubree, Liam, Hunter, Brycen, Jameson, Reagann, Kayleigh, Kolton, Dena, Pyrrha, Gwynevere Rose and Adryan. Rita was preceded in death by her parents.
Family and friends may call Thursday, April 18 from 4 to 7 p.m. at McKee Mortuary, 1401 Ind. 114W, North Manchester. A graveside service will be held at a later date at Sidney Cemetery, Ind. 13 and CR 850S, Sidney.
For those who wish to honor the memory of Rita Rider, memorial contributions may be made to the donor’s choice.
The family of Rita Rae Rider has entrusted McKee Mortuary with care and final arrangements.
Condolences may be emailed to mckeemortuary.com.
