Charles Rider III

Oct 28, 1960 -

Jun 27, 2024

Charles A. Rider III, 63, passed away peacefully in Grand Junction, Colo., on June 27, 2024. He was born on Oct. 28, 1960, in Kingston, Pa., to Patricia and Charles A. Rider Jr.

An Army brat, Chuck traveled extensively with his family before they settled in Alaska. He attended Bartlett High School, graduating in 1978. An accomplished athlete, Chuck excelled in various sports but found his true passion in swimming. He attended college before returning to Alaska to begin his career with the Anchorage School District. Starting as a grounds worker, Chuck worked his way up to retire as a Maintenance Supervisor.

Chuck loved the outdoors and spent countless weekends hunting and fishing with friends, He seemed to always know the best fishing spots. Chuck cherished early mornings on the Kenai River, venturing out with his thermos of coffee while the fog still hung on the water.

On Aug. 28, 1982, Chuck married his high school sweetheart, Sonja Borstad. Together, they raised two sons. Chuck was an active coach for his sons' baseball teams, earning a reputation for his "iron arm" as he tirelessly pitched hundreds of balls at the batting cage he built at their home.

A dedicated son, Chuck assisted his parents in building their retirement cabin, rallying his wide range of friends with - mostly - useful skills to make the project a success. After retiring, Chuck and Sonja moved to Arizona before relocating to Grand Junction to be closer to their son and his family. Despite the move, they continued to travel back to Alaska during the summer.

Chuck loved to have friends visit and was lucky enough to spend his last few days playing golf and enjoying time with one of them. Sadly, Chuck will no longer be making the journey north.

Chuck is preceded in death by his father, Charles A. Rider Jr.; and brother, Christopher. He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Sonja; sons, Charles A. Rider IV (Eryn) and Jake A. Rider (Nicole); mother, Patricia Rider; sister, LauriAnn Heiken; and sister-in-law, Peggy Rider. He also leaves behind seven nieces and nephews, and seven grandchildren.

Chuck will be dearly missed around the campfire but fondly remembered for the good times, good stories and unforgettable days fishing, clamming and just hanging out. Bottoms up, Chuck.