Carl Clinton Rider
December 22, 1952 – May 4, 2025
Carl Clinton Rider went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Sunday, May 4, 2025,
surrounded by his loving family. Born on December 22, 1952, in San Bernardino, California, to
Charles Watson Rider and Betty Inez Lenhart (Rider), Carl was a lifelong resident of San
Bernardino County, where he lived for 72 years.
A skilled carpenter, Carl owned and operated his own cabinet shop for eight years, crafting
everything from custom cabinets to handmade skateboards. He later built a long and successful
career in the air conditioning and heating industry, working for 35 years. His final professional
role was with the State of California as a Stationary Engineer. Carl had a passion for classic cars
and took great pride in restoring his 1964 Chevy Nova—driving it proudly while his health
allowed. Before his passing, he was inducted as a member of the Street Racer Club of Southern
California.
In 1980, Carl gave his life to Christ at the Ontario Missionary Baptist Church. He answered the
Lord’s call to the ministry in 1982, was ordained in 1996, and served as pastor of Trinity
Landmark Missionary Baptist Church for eight years. One of his proudest accomplishments was
serving as a Chaplain for the Redlands Police Department, where he provided comfort and
guidance to those in crisis. Carl was a faithful servant and a true warrior for the Lord.
On August 11, 1971, Carl married the love of his life, Madonna “Donna” Jean Westrum, in Las
Vegas, Nevada. Together, they raised three children and built a life centered on faith and
family.
Carl is survived by his beloved wife, Donna; his children, Julie Loeffert (Eric), Carl Rider II
(Heather), and Kristin Akes (Paul Payne); and his grandchildren, Carl Rider III, Katie Loeffert,
Madylin Rider, Randy Akes III, and Charley Akes. He is also survived by his dear sister, Sandra
Jones, as well as several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his cherished
grandson, Zachary.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at 11:00 AM at First Missionary
Baptist Church of Redlands, located at 1100 Occidental Dr., Redlands, CA 92374.
Arrangements are entrusted to the care of Akes Family Funeral Home, Riverside, CA.
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