Obituary of Franklin W. Rider

(Appleton) Franklin W. Rider, Sr. age 79 died February 13, 2020 in his son’s home following a short illness and surrounded by his loving family. He was born January 30, 1941 in Buffalo to John and Bernice (Beilfuss) Rider and had lived in this area since 1953. Franklin was a life-long fruit farmer and enjoyed going to the casino and loved his animals. He had a special affinity for International Harvester tractors and shared that passion with his family and friends. Franklin was a family man and particularly enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren, who affectionately referred to him as a “Prankster and a Gangster.” Mr. Rider was predeceased by a brother John and a sister Catherine Ribbeck. He is survived by his sons: Franklin (Janice) Rider Jr., of Barker, Robert Rider of Lyndonville, Randy (Cindy) Rider of Gasport, his daughter: Tina (Ron) Newman of Lockport, his sisters: Mary LaJoie of Middleport, Roseann McKenczie of Lockport, Virginia (Doug) Piskorowski of Barker, 7 grandchildren: Ryan, Cassandra, Shannon, Tanya, Franklin III, Brittany, Brandi, 8 great-grandchildren as well as several nieces and nephews. There will be no prior calling hours. Private services and interment will be held at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Niagara Hospice, 4675 Sunset Dr., Lockport, NY, 14094 or the Barker Fire Dept., 1660 Quaker Rd., Barker, NY, 14012.