Obituaries

Kevin M. Ryan, 77, passed away on August 13, at Waunakee Senior Living. Born on October 15th, 1946 in Lodi, WI, to Lawrence “Bud” and Georgia Ryan, Kevin was one of five children. He graduated from Madison West High School in 1964. Shortly after, he entered the Army and served in Vietnam. He was a proud veteran and shared many stories of his service in his later years.

After returning from the military, Kevin partnered with his father in the family coffee business where he honed his skills in sales and customer service. This experience led to an illustrious and successful career with Baraboo Sysco Foods, where he was known for his warm personality and long conversations over a cup of coffee with his customers. Not only was he a salesman, but he was also a loyal patron to all of his customers throughout the years. Supper club dinners and Friday night fish fries were a familiar and frequent joy he shared with family and friends.

Kevin was an avid hunter and fisherman. He cherished the annual hunting trips with his father, Uncle Bill, and friends Jim Beaver, Dick Malisch, and Steve Kundert, gathering at his home and heading out early in the morning to hunt. He looked forward to trout fishing with his older brother Larry, where the serenity and camaraderie were as important as the catch.

Kevin spent 44 years in Adams-Friendship, WI. There were many happy times at "the Cottage" on Big Roche A Cri Lake, enjoying cruises with family and friends on his sturdy old pontoon boat with his kids jumping off to swim. Road trips in South Dakota with his family in their big old camper were some of Kevin's favorite memories. He loved the early morning coffee at the picnic table and s'mores around the campfire at night. He was truly happy out on the open road, whether on camper trips or on cherished motorcycle rides with his children, and he fully embraced the adventure of showing off the sights he loved.

Kevin's children were the lights of his life, and his grandchildren brought him endless joy, pride, and smiles. Although his last year was marked by health challenges, it brought his family closer together, creating memorable moments. He cherished every brunch, Packer game, Brewer game, and visit with his loved ones.

Kevin is survived by his son, Kevin (Sharon) Ryan, and daughter, Amy (Jim) Schenk, from his marriage to Betsy Fleury; his daughter, Courtney (James) Ryan-Dalton, and son, Patrick (Lary) Ryan, from his marriage to Debra Dunn-Ryan. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Adam and Haley Schenk, Evan and Ella Ryan, and William Dalton, along with another granddaughter on the way. He is further survived by his brothers: Larry (Marilyn) Ryan, Brad (Sue) Ryan, and Pauli Ryan, along with many beloved nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence "Bud" and Georgia Ryan, and his beloved sister, Pam “Pammy” Ryan/VanderWoude, and his niece Laura Ryan.

Special thanks to his closest friend, Ken Lawsing of Adams, who tirelessly provided Kevin with support, rides, sustenance, and, most importantly, friendship for many years; and to Debra Dunn-Ryan who assisted him in navigating the caring and complex world of the VA medical system, and for generously supporting him with her continued friendship, humor, and kindness. The family would also like to thank the Waunakee Manor staff and residents who became Kevin’s "community" over the past year, providing support and companionship, as well as the caring doctors and staff at the Madison VA.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date, yet to be determined. Gifts in Kevin’s honor can be made to the Vietnam Veterans of America, an organization that helps those who served obtain the services they need.

All in all, it was a good ride. As the VA staff said to him during each of Kevin's many visits:

"Thank you for your service, Sir."