In loving memory of

Thomas R. Rider
July 30, 1935 - January 3, 2018

Thomas "Tom" Rider age 82, of Hugo, MN, passed away Wednesday, January 3, 2018 at his home surrounded by his loving family. Tom will be remembered as a generous, kind, humble, hard working husband, father, and grandfather who loved life and lived it to its fullest. Tom was passionate about his family and his faith. "It's all about family" was his go to motto. Tom had many interests: riding horses, farming, figuring numbers, reading and rehabbing properties. He had a special way with people that left a lasting impression. He always had twinkle in his eye.

Tom was born July 30, 1935 to Russell and Mary Rider in St. Paul, MN. He graduated from Cretin-Derham Hall in 1953 and enlisted in the Navy Seebees. After an honorable discharge he met his first wife Virginia and had six children: Rick, Ginny, Linn, Ron, Russ and Mary. Tom retired from the state highway department after 22 years to pursue more of his passion for farming and rehabbing properties. Tom met Arta in 1978 and they had two children together, Anne and Paul.

Preceded in death by his parents, Russell T. Rider and Mary A. Rider; grandson, Jake Rider. Tom is survived by his wife of 37 years, Arta Rider; eight children; Rick (Lou) Rider, Ginny (Don) Currell, Linn (Don) Valley, Ron Rider, Russ Rider, Mary Baker, Paul (Janelle) Rider, Annie (Dustin) Carlson, 21 grandchildren & 11 great grandchildren.

A Celebration of Tom's Life 12 Noon Tuesday, January 9th with visitation beginning at 10 AM at Christ Lutheran Church, 4790 Rosemary Way, Hugo. Memorials if desired can be sent to donor's choice.

Tributes

Ron Miller, Post Chaplain wrote on Jan 4, 2018:

"On behalf of the Forest Lake American Legion Post 225, we give thanks for Tom's military service to our nation in the Navy."

Susan Hoff wrote on Jan 4, 2018:

"Rider family, I have not met most of you, but I do know Arta and Tom as they used to come to Annie's softball games. Annie played softball with my daughters and my husband was the coach. I have so many great memories of Tom. He always had a smile on his face and kind words to share when he saw you. And for sure he made you laugh each time you saw him. We saw Tom and Arta years later and it was like we picked up right where we left off. He remembered us immediately and also had many memories to share. Please know that our prayers are with you all and may you feel the loving arms of God comforting you as you remember all the great memories Tom has left you with. God bless!"

Sheri Pederson wrote on Jan 4, 2018:

"I only met Tom on a couple occasions, as a friend of Mary's, but was always impressed that he'd remember me no matter how long it had been. He seemed like quite a man and his family clearly loved him. He will be deeply missed. "

Shantell Hoff wrote on Jan 4, 2018:

"Annie and Family-friendly I'm sad to hear this he was a great man, I have fond memories if him at our softball games rooting us on. And the many memories at your house which I called the farm. Thinking of you all!!"

Shawna (Hoff) Lindgren wrote on Jan 4, 2018:

"My thoughts and prayers go out to all of you. I have great memories of Tom as Annie and I grew up playing softball together. He was always there as one of the biggest cheerleaders. We spent many hours playing on the farm as kids too. Blessings to all. "