David Scott Ryan
July 26, 1960 - November 5, 2024
On November 5, 2024, the world grew a little dimmer with the loss of David Scott Ryan, a man whose towering faith and enduring love for those around him made indelible marks on countless lives. Born on July 26, 1960, in Brunswick, Maine, Dave's life was a symphony of steadfast devotion to his faith, his family, his community, and his profession. At age 64, he passed away peacefully at his home after a year long battle with cancer in Prescott Valley, Ariz., surrounded by his loving wife and son, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, courage, and selflessness. Dave is survived by his loving wife, Karen; adoring son, Zach Sumner Ryan; his mother, Martha Parsons Hotchkiss; father, Patrick Francis Ryan; sister, Robin K Ryan; stepson, Adam Scott Gonsalves; aunts and uncle, Jane and Greg Vanscoy, Barb Yarema, Marty Ryan; six nephews, six grandchildren, two great grandchildren, many cousins, as well as a legacy of loving grandparents, including Charles Sumner Parsons, Alice Welles Parsons, Francis "Sprint" Ryan, and Helen Wallace Ryan, who all went before him.
A Celebration of Life will be held in his honor in February/March 2025 at the Hyatt in Wichita, Kan., where family, friends, colleagues, and students will gather to reminisce about the man whose laughter, stories, and teachings profoundly touched their lives. In Dave's own words, his guidance was simple yet profound: "Do the right thing, take the high road." These words, like Dave himself, promise to remain forever etched in the hearts of those privileged enough to have known him. His life, an outstanding silhouette of generosity, kindness, and compassion, will be a guiding beacon for generations to come.
May he rest peacefully, and may we carry his light forward into the dawn of a new era as we honor his memory and heed his teachings.
Ryan, David
