Obituaries

Reed Ryan

December 27, 2000 - November 28, 2023

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Obituary For Reed Ryan

Waunakee – Reed Ryan our much loved son, brother, uncle, teammate, and friend was welcomed by the angels into Heaven on November 28, 2023. Reed, age 22, was born on December 27, 2000.

Reed went into cardiac arrest on November 21st following a football team workout in the weight-room doing what he loved. This was the result of an undetected genetic heart condition and a large, loving heart. The athletic training team was tremendous in their efforts to immediately initiate CPR and regain his pulse. The ICU hospital staff at St. Mary's-Duluth were amazing in doing everything possible for him. We want to especially thank Jessa, Hannah, Dawn, Sabrina, and Abbi, his teammates, the UMD coaching staff and administration--especially Forrest Karr and Coach Weise.

Reed is survived by his parents, Erin and Stephanie, his sister Robyn, his brother Chase (Paige) Parr, nephews Everett and Benson, grandmother Joanne, Great Aunt Arlene McGee, uncles Tommy Ryan and Darius (Mariah) McCurty, dog Sconnie, and many close family and friends. He was preceded in death by his mother Tiffany, Grandfather Pat, Uncle Patrick, and Great Uncle Don McGee.

Reed had a contagious smile and lived life to the fullest in his short years. Reed loved people, he could talk to anyone and prided himself on being surrounded by friends, family, mentors, and being part of a team. He created his own online vintage store-Thrifted Tiger, loved to travel, collecting shoes, drawing, going to concerts, and cooking.

Reed graduated from Waunakee High School in 2019 was the State of Wisconsin Defensive Player of the Year, recipient of the Tim Krumrie award, and State Wrestling runner up. Following, he accepted a full scholarship to play football at North Dakota State University (NDSU) for four seasons. In 2023, he was welcomed as a Bulldog at the University of Minnesota-Duluth with #99. He was a three time Commissioner's Academic Excellence award winner, a four time Missouri Valley Football Honor roll member, and earned three championship rings. He was committed to his lead role in Christian Athlete groups, his spirituality, and God.

Even in death, Reed was thinking of how he could help others and donated several organs, additionally Reed will be an Important part of a NCAA research study to help prevent this from happening to other athletes.

Please honor Reed by being kind. In lieu of flowers, Memorials can be sent to Stephanie Ryan for a scholarship in his honor.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00am on Saturday, December 2, 2023, at BLACKHAWK CHURCH, 9620 Brader Way, Middleton. Service will be delivered by Associated Pastor Michael Rorabeck. There will be a visitation at the church on Friday, December 1, 2023, from 3:00pm until 7:00pm and again on Saturday at the church from 10:00am until the time of service. To view and sign this guestbook, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com.

Ryan Funeral Service & Cremation Services

2418 N Sherman Ave

608-249-8257

Services

1 Dec

Visitation

03:00 PM - 07:00 PM

Blackhawk Church 9620 Brader Way Middleton, Wisconsin 53562 Get Directions »
2 Dec

Visitation

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Blackhawk Church 9620 Brader Way Middleton, Wisconsin 53562 Get Directions »
2 Dec

Funeral Service

11:00 AM

Blackhawk Church 9620 Brader Way Middleton, Wisconsin 53562 Get Directions »
by Obituary Assistant

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Condolences

  • December 04, 2023

    My heart goes out to your family. We walked this valley in 2017 when our son Chris passed away after suffering cardiac arrhythmia at football practice. Please look up the nearest chapter of Compassionate Friends. The group is specifically for parents who have lost a child, a group no one wants to join, but you are blessed that it is available.

  • December 03, 2023

    We are praying for your family during this incredibly difficult time. By all accounts Reed was a truly special person. I'm glad the team could be with Reed yesterday. I hope Reed was looking down and smiling. UMD Football Teammate #30's family - The Niggelings

  • December 03, 2023

    No parent should ever have to experience the pain of losing a child. My heart aches for your entire family, and I hope you find strength in the love and support surrounding you.

  • December 02, 2023

    With our utmost heartfelt sincere condolences! Thinking of the Ryan family & UMD football team. Thank you Reed for the friendship with our son, rest in peace young man! ~ The Weyer's ~ UMD Football Teammate #13 🐶🦴

  • December 02, 2023

    We loved Reed so much! He was always so genuinely interested in how everyone else was doing. Whenever he would come home from college, he would always stop by to get a workout and catch up. Reed was Tanner's big brother in so many ways and Tanner looked up to him so much. Reed had a very special place in our family and he will be missed greatly. Goldy, Jodi and Tanner

  • December 02, 2023

    We are so sorry at the pain you are going through with the loss of your precious Reed. We so enjoyed the time we got to spend with him went he came home for a weekend with Caden last spring. What an incredible young man you raised. We will continue to lift you up in prayer as you navigate this new normal. Julie & Greg Osmonson

  • December 02, 2023

    I didn't know Reed, I'm just someone from California who's news feed his story came across. His story touched my heart and I feel so sad for his loved ones, family and friends. He sounds like a beautiful soul that made a huge difference in a lot of lives. RIP Mr. Reed Ryan. You did good here and I'm sure you'll forever remain. Your parents should be proud, they raised a wonderful young man. Fly with the angels sweet boy. Much love to the Ryan family. All the way from California ❤️

  • December 02, 2023

    So sorry for the family of this young man rest in eternal peace

  • December 02, 2023

    To the Ryan family, we are so deeply sorry for your tragic loss of Reed. A great, young man gone so soon. May God bless you at this very difficult time. Sending prayers & comfort! RIP #99 The Kobus Family

  • December 01, 2023

    Sending heartfelt condolences to the entire Ryan family at this difficult time. I did not have the honor of knowing Reed, but can certainly tell that he is admired and held in very high regard. I did have the joy of knowing Tiffany and Erin in their early years together, and enjoy their company quite often, another couple of Ryan's truly admired and adored! Apologies again for your loss, but may God be with you and comfort you always. Sending Love & Sincere Sympathies, Boyd & Diane Eichelkraut 🙏

  • December 01, 2023

    I met Reed our freshman year of college at NDSU. My roommates and I quickly became friends with Reed. He was always willing to make new friends, never let anyone feel left out, and never judged anybody. I can speak for my roommates and myself that we all had a sense of calmness when around him. Reed called us about three weeks ago and told us he missed us, so we planned to attend a NDSU game together. I am heartbroken and confused by this news. My heart aches that he will not get to live the rest of his life. With that being said he truly lives on through his friends, teammates, and everyone that surrounded him. Reed will never be forgotten.

  • December 01, 2023

    In general, if a person has a Big Heart (tough, brave, relentless) they usually struggle with having a Soft Heart (kind, gentle, caring); and vice versa... What make Reed Ryan special, is that he had both a Soft Heart and a Big Heart! He now gets to spend eternity with the One who has the Softest Heart and Biggest Heart ever! Honor GOD Today!

  • December 01, 2023

    My son is a teammate of Reeds. Although he did not know him well he always expressed his respect and awe of his generosity, kindness and hard work on the team. He was quite shaken with this loss as I'm sure all the boys are. To his family, our thoughts are with you all in this time. I can't even imagine how heavy your hearts are right now. Please let Coach know if there is anything we can do for you🙏🏻

  • December 01, 2023

    Our son is a UMD teammate of Reed. On our drive home from the hospital, I broke the silence and asked him to tell me who Reed is. His answer was immediate and easy and he used the words Kind, Gentle, Greatest person on the team. Reed is a young man mine looked up to and has great respect for. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Ryan family and from one Mom to the other, thank you for raising a man who made such a positive impact in my son's life. May you rest in peace #99

  • December 01, 2023

    Reed was always quick with a smile and a hug. No matter how many times I told Reed to call me by my first name, it was always Mrs. I just had to smile. I had the honor of watching him grow as an athlete, mentor and young man. Words can not express the loss. Please keep memories close.

  • December 01, 2023

    So honored to have met Reed and the family when we were neighbors and our son, Colin and Reed were classmates and friends starting at 10 years old. I can only hope that we all leave such a legacy of faith behind. Our prayers of strength are extended to you all and everyone he touched.

  • December 01, 2023

    I did not know your son but it hits close to home. My son played college football, had excellent grades, and had a strong faith, in 2021 he passed away unexpectantly at the of 19 with undected genetic heart condition of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, that would have been diagnosed with an Echocardigram, I have been working with UNC to have a more extensive physical for athletes to include Echos, sorry for your loss and your family are in my prayers. Michelle Clemmons

  • December 01, 2023

    I'm not the first and won't be the last one to vouch for what a kind mind of a man he had. Inside and out, wrestling room or the high school cafeteria....

  • December 01, 2023

    I don't know your son. But his story has come across my social media a lot. Praying for you and your family at this time. He sounds like a true Angel.

  • December 01, 2023

    Rest in peace in the arms of Christ young man.

  • December 01, 2023

    What I will remember most about Reed was his humility and love of his teammates on the football field and wrestling mat. He was a gracious recipient of a UW Credit Union Student Athlete award for ESPN Madison for his work in sports, in the classroom and community. I enjoyed our interviews and his willingness to give credit to his brothers on and off the field and mat. He was only with us a short time but he lived life to the fullest and will always be remembered for his kindness and large heart. God Bless and Rest in Peace Reed. -- Dennis Semrau

  • November 30, 2023

    Please know that we are feeling the pain and the emptiness of a world without Reed way over in Las Vegas, Nevada. We have not stopped praying and thinking of Reed and the entire family, coaches and players. My son and fellow teammate, Brody #26 said Reed was by far, one of the nicest, most genuine people he had ever met. Sending prayers and hugs to you all. R.I.P Reed #99

  • November 30, 2023

    Reed, I've always looked up to you man, the hardest working individual I've met in my life by far, I wish you nothing but love, sending prayers out to the Ryan family.

  • November 30, 2023

    I was the school resource officer during Reed's junior and senior year. I remember a fight taking place in the lunch room between two students while I was at a different school. Reed stepped in the between the two picking one up and holding the other back at the same time. Reed was able to intervene before anyone got hurt and at the conclusion, he received a standing ovation from his peers. His actions really exemplified who he was as a person in that moment; courageous, fearless, and a genuine good person. I appreciate being able to get to know him during my time in the school. He will always be remembered. - Sgt Schmidt

  • November 30, 2023

    First I want to say how very truly sorry I am for your tremendous loss. I didn't know Reed but my son did. Our family moved here to Waunakee from Utah and my middle son was in Reeds class. My son had a hard adjustment moving here as a junior in HS. When he heard of the passing of Reed he said to me that Reed was a super nice guy and one of the only people who was nice to him and welcomed him to the school. He said he was kind and warm and always had a smile and befriended my son and was open to a new person from another state. What a wonderful son you raised. Again I am so very sorry. Our prayers are with all of you.

  • November 30, 2023

    Rest in strength Reed Thoughts to all who knew and celebrated this gifted and gracious human. May the memories, laughter and times spent with him bring you some peace

  • November 30, 2023

    Erin and Family, I am so sorry for your loss. I remember Reed as a baby and young child when you brought him to Ryan Brothers station. He was an amazing young boy, and full of life. It looks like he grew into an extraordinary young man with legendary qualities. Sending healing thoughts and prayers to you and your family as you navigate this difficult time. Love, Tess RN

  • November 30, 2023

    Stephanie and Erin and family, We are so very sorry for the loss of Reed. He was such an incredible young man and touched so many lives in a positive way. There are no words to express how sorry we are that this has happened. Our hope to you is that God can wrap His loving arms and spirit around your entire family to comfort you and guide you thru this tragedy. We are sending our love and prayers your way. Sincerely and with lots of love, Steve and Karen Riese

  • November 30, 2023

    Reed was a shining light working in our agency. His smile and calm demeanor was something that I admired about him. His curiosity was another thing that I really enjoyed, he wanted to be the best and help people all that he could. We talked and he always took notes, I loved that about him. He will truly be missed by myself and all of my staff members as well as my wife, who had the opportunity to meet him several times, both in the office and outside the office. I am blessed to have known Reed, even though it was a short period of time.

  • November 30, 2023

    Never knew this young man, but he knew God. It's little comfort to say God Never Fails, but trust Him in your grief. When the wind blows slightly against your face, receive his touch knowing your angel is with. With Love and Much Respect. Keep smiling and believing.

  • November 30, 2023

    I didn't know Ryan. My heart goes out to his family and friends.

  • November 30, 2023

    Our sincere condolences on the passing of Reed. He was a beautiful soul and always smiling. He was an amazing young man for sure. I was able to watch him grow up over the tears and remember when he was born. Our boys were close in age. Thinking of the Ryan Family during this hard time. Don Iggulden and the Iggulden boys, Patrick Trevor, Kenny and Nathan.

  • November 30, 2023

    Our Son played football at UMD. Shortly after he graduated we lost his older sister in an Accident. Our hearts are broken for you as we know this nightmare you are going thru losing your precious child so young. Many of their friends still share memories of her especially at those special moments in her life. One of those of her at a UMD football game with her little brother. Ryan will always be with you and the memories with his friends and family are forever. Prayers and tears from our hearts for Ryan and his family forever.

  • November 30, 2023

    I first met Ryan at NDSU Wellness class. I sat next to Hunter, Grey, Jake, and of course Ryan! Ryan was super nice and made me understand that D1 athletes weren't just your stereotypical "jocks". Ryan was selfless and such a kind person. You will be missed.

  • November 30, 2023

    To the family of Reed Ryan I saw the passing of Red Ryan, on AOL. I did not know him, but my heart felt his passing, so young to us, but right on time, to God. I know that may be hard to hear. We want you to know that we are thinking of you in Newport News, VA. during this very difficult time. We will think about you on Saturday, December 2, 2023, as you prepare to celebrate Reed's life. May the peace of God be with you all in the days, weeks and months ahead. Sending our prayers 🙏and love ❤️ to all of you. Sincerely, James Everett, RN Health and Safety Consultant American Heart Association CPR Instructor

  • November 30, 2023

    Reed was a very special person. He was so gifted and talented in many ways, but yet remained humble. He was kind, considerate, so giving, and wise beyond his years. He also was one of our best students and role models. I will always remember his smile. Praying for the Ryan family during this very difficult time. Jo Howard, former School Counselor WCSD

  • November 30, 2023

    Reed was a wonderful person that I had the privilege of being teammates with in football and just a friend in general. He was the embodiment of a student athlete and had an impact on everyone he met including me. I wish I could pay my respects in person, but I will miss Reed and all the fun times we had together on the football field and in the classroom. I am sorry for your loss.

  • November 30, 2023

    We will miss you, Reed. Thank you for being such a good friend and teammate to the boys in Fargo.

  • November 30, 2023

    I will always remember Reed's kindness. He always smiled and said hello first, always interacted with our younger children when he passed our house, even as recently as this summer on a walk, little things that he probably didn't even know made a difference. There were many a days, I would look out my kitchen window and see him and Robyn doing a workout in Tierney Park, flipping a tire out timing each other's sprints. Everyone in our small community was rooting for Reed. This is such a tremendous loss and we are thinking of your family during this unimaginable time. Molly, Andy, Riley, Quinn & Mia Miller

  • November 30, 2023

    To the family, God has you covered. You shall see each other again. Keep your love and faith strong. Christian Mother 🙏

  • November 30, 2023

    Rest In Peace Reed Ryan 🕊, to a fellow bulldog.

  • November 30, 2023

    May God bless and watch over your family at this time of great sorrow. What an amazing young man. Will miss him on the field but know he'll be watching his teammates and cheering them on. All my love and blessings. Know you are in my prayers Diana Avallone (Justin Hull's grandmother)

  • November 29, 2023

    We are grateful to have gotten to know Reed, Stephanie and Erin as part of the UMD football family. Reed will be missed by so many and never forgotten. Sending prayers and love to you all, Michaela, Jack and Justin Hull

  • November 29, 2023

    I am A Bulldog football alumni, I personally did not know Reed, but I watched him play, and followed his Bulldog career. He is an outstanding man who positively influenced everyone he knew.

  • November 29, 2023

    The world has lost a wonderful young man way too early. Sending love and prayers to the Ryan family, extended family, and all of Reed's friends.

  • November 29, 2023

    Reed, we are going to miss you. You exemplified everything that we could ever hope for in a student. You constantly made WCHS staff proud and were always willing to do more than what was asked of you. Never saw you without a smile on your face or finding a way to help everyone around you. I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to be a small part of your life. We miss you already and I want to thank you for being you. Mr. Borowski

  • November 29, 2023

    Thank you for always being there for me when we were in sports together Reed. You always let me practice with you and taught me the right way of doing things, and never criticized me. You always treated everyone like family, and genuinely cared. I will never forget the moments we had, on and off of the field/wrestling mat. Rest in Peace brother, and I hope to see you again one day.

  • November 29, 2023

    Ryan family you are in my thoughts and prayers~ RIP#99 Mother of a Bulldog

  • November 29, 2023

    I am so sorry Erin and family. There are no words to express my deepest sympathies. Just know that you and all are being thought of in your time of need. Prayers, Love and Condolences go out to you all! Scott Bauer and Family

Tributes

  • 5 TREES

    John Burzynski planted 5 trees in memory of Reed Ryan . - December 04, 2023

  • 5 TREES

    Amanda Riedl planted 5 trees in memory of Reed Ryan . - December 02, 2023

  • Gracious Lavender Basket

    Gracious Lavender Basket was sent for Reed Ryan - December 01, 2023

  • Peace & Serenity Dishgarden

    Morgan Lepine sent Peace & Serenity Dishgarden for Reed Ryan - December 01, 2023

    We are so sorry for your loss. Reed was an amazing young man. We are here for you all. Love, Morgan and Adam LePine

  • Sunny Memories

    Sunny Memories was sent for Reed Ryan - November 30, 2023

  • Golden Days Basket

    Nick Goeser sent Golden Days Basket for Reed Ryan - November 30, 2023

    Reed was a genuine and amazing young man. I loved coaching him and his work ethic and dedication. Love you Reed, until we meet again. RIP Reed. Coach Goeser & "Alley Cats"

  • Red and White Floor Basket

    Hans Hartleben sent Red and White Floor Basket for Reed Ryan - November 30, 2023

    Our deepest condolences to Chuck Parr and the family. Sending love and hugs during this difficult time. - Hans Hartleben & Payal Patel (FIRE Fitness Camp)

  • Traditional Floor Basket

    Traditional Floor Basket was sent for Reed Ryan - November 30, 2023

  • Calming Comfort Bouquet

    Leah Wermerskirchen sent Calming Comfort Bouquet for Reed Ryan - November 30, 2023

    So much love for this special man. Thank you for being an extraordinary human, Reed. Sending all my love and prayers. Taylor Wermerskirchen & family

  • Enduring Spirit Pothos Basket

    Dylan Merriman sent Enduring Spirit Pothos Basket for Reed Ryan - November 30, 2023

    From - Dylan Merriman Agency LLC. - American Family

  • The Loving Light Dishgarden

    The Loving Light Dishgarden was sent for Reed Ryan - November 30, 2023

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Tiffany Foster went out of her way to fulfill all my requests, talked me through problems I was facing, and tried to make me feel as comfortable as possible when I was a wreck, totally crushed, and I thank her with all of my heart for that.

James S. | July 2020

The professional manner of the staff made a difficult time a little easier.

Lynda R. | July 2020

Services provided for both parents were perfect, on time, and no issues. Brenda is awesome and strong!

Michael M. | July 2020

Skyler was absolutely amazing. She was so caring and helpful through this whole process. She even went above and beyond to meet with us in DeForest and even to make a stop at our home to drop off or pick up anything needed. While it was a small gesture, it was so helpful and greatly appreciated.

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