Sister Mary Bosco Ryder

Sister Mary Bosco (Mary Lou) Ryder, OSF, 88, died Sunday, November 25, 2018 at Clare House in Dubuque in the 69th year of her religious life. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Wednesday, November 28 in Francis Chapel. Reverend Ron Friedell presided. Memorials may be given to the Sisters of St. Francis, Dubuque.

Sister Mary Bosco, daughter of the late William E. and Catherine (Ryan) Ryder, was born September 10, 1930 in Waterville. She was baptized and confirmed at St. Pius Church, Cherry Mound, Harpers Ferry. She entered the Sisters of St. Francis in Dubuque from St. Pius Church August 25, 1949. She was received with the name Sister Mary Bosco August 12, 1950 and made her final profession of vows August 12, 1955.

Sister received her bachelor’s degree at Briar Cliff College, Sioux City. She ministered as a teacher in Iowa at Pocahontas, Holy Trinity in Dubuque, Monticello, Stacyville, Dyersville and St. Mary’s in Waterloo. She also ministered at Crescent City, CA.

Sister is survived by her sister-in-law, Janette Ryder-Blong of Waukon; her nieces and nephews; and her Franciscan sisters with whom she shared over 68 years of her life. Sister was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Donald; and her sister, Betty.