James Edward Ridder

James Edward Ridder, 87, entered eternal life December 27, 2021. He was born 8th of ten children to Joseph and Anna Ridder January 11, 1934. Jim grew up in Derby, Andover and Wichita, graduating from St. Mary's Cathedral High school in 1953. He attended The University of Kansas and served in the U.S. Army in Germany. After leaving the service, he worked at KG&E as a lineman and line crew foreman, retiring after 35 years. Jim enjoyed playing, coaching and watching sports. He liked to spend time outside - often taking his young family camping and fishing. He spent many hours with and without a pole walking along the banks of the Arkansas River by his home, but his greatest pastime was growing a large vegetable garden. Jim was preceded in death by a son, John Milton and two grandchildren Kylie Sue Hosford and William Brandon Rains. Jim is survived by his wife of 59 years Carol Ann (Sells); his children James, Theresa (Mauri) Rains, Jeffrey (Karen), Karen (Jeremy) Hosford, Annamarie (Jason) Irwin and Sally (Casey) Irwin; grandchildren Cody, Carrie, Jason, Casey, Julie, Kellie, Jenna, John Paul, Jack, Joe, Cameron, James, Ivan, Janey, Jessica; great-grandchild Charleigh; his sister Catherine Clasen and brother Richard Ridder; Funeral Mass is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Monday, January 3, 2022 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 139 S. Millwood, Wichita, 67213. The rosary will precede services at 9:30 a.m. Interment follows at Resurrection Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to the church.