Fond Memories

I wanted to share this story from one of Ryan’s friends because it captures, so perfectly, the kind of friend he was. Ryan had an incredible way of showing up for people, not loudly or for attention, but consistently, genuinely, and with his whole heart. He made people feel seen, supported, and safe just by being himself.

I am so heartbroken to hear that you are gone, Ryan. But your spirit will always live on with all of us. You were one of the sweetest and most genuine people I have ever known. If you ever met Ryan, you know his smile and laugh were so sincere that they made you smile or laugh even more.

One of my core memories is being in Provincetown with you, and the rest of the crew. One night ended with us locked out of your hotel room around three or four in the morning because everyone else had fallen asleep and we did not have a key. We sat outside, shivering, talking about life and all the deep stuff, eventually passing out until we woke up with the sun beating down on our faces. We laughed about how many people must have walked by us.

Another memory that means so much to me was the day I taught my first dance class. I was incredibly nervous, and you were the first person to show up. That surprise meant everything. Only three people came, and you were one of them. Your support stayed with me.

One more core memory was a New Year’s Eve party. You asked when I would be teaching another dance class because you wanted to come. I said I was not sure, and I joked that we should just have a dance class right then and there. So I dragged you down to the basement. What started as a dance class turned into a deep heart to heart. We talked about personal struggles, cried, hugged, and encouraged each other. Then I said, “and this is why we dance,” and we danced it out, being goofy together while the party went on upstairs.

That was you. Always present. Always supportive. Always real.

Stories like this are why Ryan’s legacy continues to live on. He showed up. He listened. He loved deeply. And he made people feel less alone in this world.