Ryder Finkel, a Michigan native and standout athlete, passed away on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at an untimely age of nine after a long and courageous battle with rare brain cancer.
According to his family, Ryder Finkel took his last breath in his home surrounded by his loved ones after a two-year-long battle with Diffused Intrinsic Pontine Glioma, an inoperable brain tumor.
Ryder Finkel was diagnosed with DIPG on October 19, 2023, and underwent several treatments. For two years, he bravely and gracefully fought against cancer, inspiring others.
Furthemore, the untimely death of Ryder Finkel has left a profound void in the lives of his family, friends, and loved ones.
Many of his loved ones are paying tribute to Ryder Finkel and extending their heartfelt condolences to his family during this tragic moment.
Ryder Finkel touched many lives through his athletic journey and cheerful nature. He was a beloved member of the Romeo Junior Bulldogs football team.
He was named honorary captain of the Romeo Junior Bulldogs football team in October 2024 and led his team to several victories.
Similarly, Ryder also had a close and strong bond with NFL player Aidan Hutchinson, whom he met in the hospital.
Hutchinson often calls Ryder one of the ‘heroes’ behind his ‘House of Hutch’ initiative and states that Ryder helped him overcome his own ‘victim mode’ and see the bigger picture.
Likewise, Aidan Hutchinson dedicated a game to Ryder, an avid Detroit Lions fan.
Ryder Finkel’s courageous battle and his contribution to the community as a dedicated athlete will always be remembered.
Ryder Finkel is Survived By His Parents, Tim and Angela, Brother, and the Entire Family
Ryder Finkel was a great son to his parents, Tim Paul Finkel and Angela LaRosa Finkel, and a loving brother ot Wyatt Finkel.
Tim and Angela often share pictures of their beloved late son, Ryder, expressing their love and pride for him.
While Angela hasn’t shared anything regarding the untimely passing of Ryder, as she is currently grieving the loss of her beloved son, his father, Tim, took to his social media to express his love.
The post reads:
“I’m proud of Ryder. For over two years of battle, we followed his lead, his bravery, tenacity, humor, smile, energy, ideas, enthusiasm, and his relentless love. He lived life with the wisdom as if he had already lived 3 lifetimes. He taught us all how to be our best. In his short 9 years, he leaves behind an impact that few achieve in a lifetime. Before cancer, and after, Ryder loved being alive. He showed us what it means to be alive and to love deeply. In a world filled with a great deal of darkness, Ryder was and is light. A light that will forever remain in our hearts and the tapestry of our family, friends, and community at large. He is our greatest gift.”
Tim Paul Finkel
Ryder Finkel’s father, Tim Finkel, is an educational consulting partner and comedian. He has been a stand-up comedian since 2016, performing at theatres, comedy clubs, and bars nationwide.
Prior to that, he served as a sales growth specialist and district customer success manager at Cengage Group, and as a Digital Learning Executive at Wiley.
Tim also served as a special education teacher at Rochester Community School for over three years and at Macomb Intermediate School District for nearly 17 years.
He also served as a snowboard instructor at Mt. Holly Ski Area for over thirteen years and as a sales manager at Antoon’s Bike and Snowboard Shop.
Tim earned his Bachelor of Education from Western Michigan University in 2002 and his Master’s degree in special education and teaching from Oakland University in 2007.
Similarly, Ryder’s mother, Angela LaRosa Finkel, served as the resource teacher for students with ASD at Rochester Community Schools. She earned her BS in Special Education, Cognitive Impairments, and Master of Education with a major in ASD from Wayne State University.
In addition to his parents and brother, Ryder Finkel is survived by his grandparents, uncles, aunts, cousins, and the entire family.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Ryder Finkel’s family has yet to provide details about his funeral and memorial services.
- His elder brother Wyatt is also an athlete.
