Charles Anthony Rider III

Charles A. Rider III, passed away peacefully in Grand Junction, CO, on June 27, 2024, at the age of 63. Born on October 28, 1960, in Kingston, PA, to Patricia and Charles A. Rider, Jr.

A military brat, Chuck traveled extensively with his family before they settled in Anchorage, Alaska, in the early 1970s. He attended Bartlett High School, where he graduated in 1978. An accomplished athlete, Chuck excelled in various sports but found his true passion in swimming, earning a scholarship for his talents. He attended college in Idaho and Washington 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's love for the outdoors was a defining aspect of his life. He spent countless weekends hunting and fishing with friends, often sharing stories of hunting camp and seemed to always know the best fishing spots. He cherished early mornings on the Kenai River, venturing out with his thermos of coffee while the fog still hung on the water. 

On August 28, 1982, Chuck married his high school sweetheart, Sonja Borstad. Together, they raised two sons who inherited their parents' love for the outdoors and sports. 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 for a few years before relocating to Grand Junction to be closer to their son and his family while escaping the heat. Despite the move, they continued to travel back to Alaska during the summer.

Chuck was fondly known as Uncle Grumps to his nieces and nephews and simply Grumps to his grandchildren. Although he could be difficult at times, he was always dependable when it mattered most. He was a loyal friend who maintained lifelong relationships with many remarkable people. 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 his brother, Christopher. He is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Sonja; his sons, Charles A. Rider IV (Eryn) of Grand Junction and Jake A. Rider (Nicole) of Anchorage; his mother, Patricia Rider of Soldotna; his sister, LauriAnn Heiken of Anchorage and sister-in-law Peggy Rider of Vancouver, WA. He also leaves behind seven nieces and nephews, seven grandchildren, and a plethora of close friends.

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, Grumps.