Gwendolyn H. Rider
1924 ~ 2008
Gwendolyn Mary Higgins Rider passed away Monday, May 12, 2008.She was born August 16, 1924 to Leonard A. and Ivy Banham Higgins, in Salt Lake City, UT. She lived the life she wanted to live. She was the motivation behind the creation of Rider Plastics along with her husband Max and his family. She remained active in the everyday operations until October 2007. She had a very independent personality, living in San Francisco to work as a young woman during World War II. After returning to the Salt Lake Valley she met Max on a blind date. They were married June 18, 1947, in the Salt Lake Temple.
She loved playing golf, bowling, bridge, reading, and was an avid sports fan. Her greatest thrill was watching the Yankees play ball. She was a member of PTA and the Hi-Steppers dance club. She loved to travel, especially to Newport Beach California. She was an exceptional cook, particularly her Christmas morning breakfasts with her family. She loved butter so much she had her own butter dish at each of her family members' homes. She loved to drive her new Cadillac but refused to pump her own gas. She spent many pleasant days at the cabin in the mountains, with lifelong friends. She taught all of her children and grandchildren how to play cards and spent many happy hours playing with them. Gwen and Max were wonderful parents to Nancy, Kevin, and Sally. They raised Chandler, Sally's son from his birth.
Preceded in death by her husband Max, daughter Sally, grandson Kevin, and brothers Leonard and Ray Higgins. Gwen is survived by; daughter Nancy (Kevin) Haslam, son Kevin (Dolly) Rider, 14 grandchildren and spouses, 14 great grandchildren and two expected shortly, sister Millicent Rimmasch, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Graveside services will be held Saturday, May 17, 2008, 12 noon at Lake Hills Cemetery, 10055 So. State Street. A viewing will be held Friday, 6-8 p.m. at Larkin Sunset Lawn, 2350 E. 1300 So. Online condolences at larkincares.com
The family would like to express their gratitude to Cyndy, her caregiver. Also a special thanks to Sandy and Kay, from Superior Homecare and Hospice, for all the loving care provided to Gwen and all of us who loved her.