John Charles Ryder was born on May 27, 1970, in St. Clair Shores, Michigan, to June Jacqueline Pheeney and William Vernon Ryder II. He had two siblings: an older brother, William Vernon (Will/Bill), and an older sister, Katherine Elizabeth (Kate).

John spent his childhood in New England. He lived with his mother and went to school in Portland, Maine, and lived with his father in Newburyport, Massachusetts, just north of Boston. Growing up he was a devoted Dungeons & Dragons player, dirt-bike rider, and then skateboard stuntman. His mother came home from work one afternoon to find a quarter-pipe in her suburban driveway, with John airborne. The pipe blocked her garage for many months despite John’s promises otherwise. He made many life-long friendships during his years in Maine, most who have come here to Humboldt to visit or work with him.

John’s early life was deeply shaped by the passing of his father who died of cancer when John was a young teen. He was with his father in his final moments, an experience that left a lasting impact. These were difficult years and John was a challenge to his teachers, needing them to understand his situation, and to grow his mind - not only grade his tests. His mother enrolled him at North Yarmouth Academy in Maine, a private school where she hoped he would be better guided than in the public school system. He met some of his closest friends there.

In 1989, John graduated high school and moved to California to be closer to his brother, who was in Los Angeles. In the early 1990s he enrolled at Humboldt State University, where he earned straight A’s in his first year while supporting himself as a carpenter. In 1994, his daughter, Emily Eyer-Ryder, was born to Catie Eyer. Emily was raised in Arcata and was, from the day she was born, the love of John’s life. He embedded in her his strong sense of social justice and empathy, and his wicked sense of humor.

John traveled the world widely, always in pursuit of new experiences and good music, to which he was devoted, but he remained deeply connected to the people and land of his adopted home. He was constantly exploring the Redwoods, the rivers, creeks and coast – mapping the land and its history. He farmed in Humboldt and built a beautiful home deep on Fickle Hill, where he was surrounded by trees and birdsong. He never stopped appreciating the beauty and peace of mind that it offered.

John lived fully and with force, touching all in his orbit. He passed on August 28, in a place he loved, surrounded by friends.

John is survived by his daughter, Emily Eyer-Ryder; his brother and sister-in-law, William and Betty Ryder; his sister and brother-in-law, Kate and Per Landemoen; as well as our next wonderful generation - Louise, William, Emma, Ella and little John Ryder.

We are gathering his family and many friends together for a send-off and memorial at:

Bayside Grange on Sunday, September 7, at 2 p.m.

Please join us – All are welcome.