Harry Rydbom

Harry Rydbom, age 73, of Kent, OH passed away Thursday April 18, 2024 at UH Portage Medical Center in Ravenna after an extended illness.

Harry was born March 28,1951 to parents Richard and Betty Rydbom (nee Burgess). He graduated from Theodore Roosevelt High School in 1970. After high school, Harry served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam era. Harry was a machinist by trade, but his real passion was drag racing. He began the love of drag racing during his teenage years with friends Dave and Phil Sebring, Ken Hines, Tom Strayer, and Butch Guiher. Harry was a crew chief for many racing teams over the years. His love for drag racing didn’t end there, it continued throughout his life.

Preceded in death by his parents; and his sisters, Sheri Deutsch and Debbie Howard. Harry is survived by his wife, Debbie; his children, Brandy (Kevin) Kelley, Rachel Dillon (J. Barbour), Harry Jr., and Matt (Heather) Houck; grandchildren, Zack Kelley (Alexis McClung), Cole and Lilly Dillon, Reese Rydbom, Alexa and Gia Barbour; and sisters; Betty Howe and Traci Monroe.

The family will host a Celebration of Life 5-8 P.M. TUESDAY May 7th at the American Legion Underwood Hall, 1945 Mogadore Rd, Kent, OH 44240. Military honors in recognition of Harry’s service with the U.S. Army will be rendered at 6 P.M. The family kindly asks all who attend to dress casually and wear your favorite racing t-shirt in tribute of Harry. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Legion Post 496 at 1945 Mogadore Rd., Kent, OH 44240. 

Services entrusted to Bissler & Sons Funeral Home and Crematory, 628 W. Main Street, Kent, OH 44240

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