Ottumwa, Iowa - Michelle Lee Ryder, 56, of Ottumwa died at 7:45 p.m. October 5, 2025 at Ottumwa Regional Health Center.

She was born January 25, 1969 in Bloomfield. Michelle married Wesley Dale Ryder on March 17, 1989.

A 1987 graduate of Ottumwa High School, Michelle earned a bachelor's degree in chemistry from the University of Northern Iowa.

She worked for a short time for the Iowa Department of Human Services. Michelle was a stay-at-home mom and helped in the schools while her children were growing up.

She loved reading, tending her plants, feeding the squirrels and other animals. Michelle especially loved attending her kids and grandkids sporting events.

Surviving is her husband, Wes; their children, Kelsey Ryder of Ottumwa, Benjamin (Cassie) Ryder of Bloomfield and Gage Ryder of Ottumwa; 5 grandchildren, Emma, Axel, Asher, Arlie and Asen; her mother, Yvonne (Sid) Maxwell of Bloomfield; siblings, Jason (Lisa) Bell of Bloomfield, Missy (Chuck) Harris of Ottumwa and Melanie (Terry) Emery of Blakesburg; and a brother-in-law, Matthew Keasling.

She was preceded in death by grandparents including grandfather, Donald Adams; her mother-in-law, Diana Keasling and father-in-law, Richard Ryder.

Her body has been cremated and services are not planned.

Memorials may be made to the family to be designated for a scholarship at a later date.

Reece Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.