RYAN was born on May 27, 1972 in Nelson and passed away April 8, 2013, in Nelson, with his parents at his side.
In his life Ryan only knew FRIENDS. And everyone was a friend. Dad was his Best Friend. His buddies at Bigby Place were his important friends. His workers were his appreciated friends. Ryan started making friends when he first went to elementary school at South Nelson, and continued through Trafalgar and LV Rogers, from which he proudly graduated.
Ryan’s many friend connections were not only with Bigby Place, but also with the Blue Grass Society, and Kootenay Co op Radio, and his Dad’s band allowing music to be a constant in his life. The Nelson Maple Leafs had Ryan as a proud fan. He was thrilled and so very happy to be allowed to attend an afternoon game not long ago, even though he was hospitalized, and had to take his wheelchair. He loved every minute. And, at the Nelson Royal Canadian Legion, Ryan was able to share his love of the game of snooker.
About 20 years ago Ryan discovered Nelson Special Olympics and the friends that were involved in that. He also discovered that he enjoyed bowling, cross country skiing, soccer, hiking, and SWIMMING. Ryan met with success at many Special Olympics Swim Meets from Abbotsford to London, Ontario (his trip of a lifetime), bringing home gold, silver and bronze medals.
Ryan’s memory will be treasured by his parents, Bill and Joan, his sister Tricia, with Dwayne, and Jack and Lily, his nephew and niece. Gramma Jacura, as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends will also keep him in their hearts.
Ryan’s family would like to express sincere appreciation for all the friendships and companionships that were offered to Ryan through his life in Nelson. To the ‘kids’ at Bigby place, all the workers that have guided Ryan through the years, and most recently, the fabulous Health Care Professionals at the Nelson Hospital, thank you all.
Our gratitude also to the Legion Ladies who hosted Ryan’s Celebration of Life, the ‘Bigby Band’, and all those who attended.
There have been so many ‘acts of kindness’ towards Ryan and the family recently and through the years; please know that they are appreciated and remembered. Thank you all for being such a big part of Ryan’s life.