Raymond Ryan Obituary (2013)

Funeral services for Raymond Ronald Ryan age 76 of Blair were held May 8th, 2013 at First United Methodist Church in Blair. Interment was in the Blair Cemetery. Raymond passed away on May 5th, 2013 at Methodist Hospital in Omaha. Raymond Ronald Ryan was born April 27th, 1937 in Dayton, Ohio to William and Mary Ryan. He graduated from high school in Dayton and received a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Nebraska at Omaha and an Associate’s Degree from Metropolitan Community College. He served in the Air Force, Navy, Army and Army Reserves. He was retired from the United States Postal Service. Ray married Judy Ryan and to this union 3 children were born- Bob, Ron and Renee. On May 29th 1988 Ray married Karene Brenton. Ray was an avid fisherman and enjoyed bowling, collecting clocks and the search for the perfect old mustang. At nearly 29 gallons, he was one of the most prolific donors of blood in the state. Ray and Karene made many trips around the world with his favorite being “In the Footsteps of Paul” through Turkey and Greece. He was very active in his church serving on many committees, mowing the lawn, singing in the choir and is a past President of Methodist Men. Eleven years ago Ray and Karene organized the Senior Moments group which is still going strong. He also enjoyed the companionship of his card playing couples and was a regular member of the Methodist F.I.S.H visitation group. He was preceded in death by his parents, son Bob, and daughter Renee Lampman. He is survived by wife of 24 years Karene Brenton –Ryan of Blair, son Ron and Julie Ryan of Omaha; son in law Ben Lampman of Omaha; stepson Ben and Jackie Brenton of Chicago, Ill, stepson Barry and Blythe Brenton of New York, NY; Ray has 10 grandchildren Brooks, Kassie and Brett Brenton; Clara Brenton; Cierra, Ben, Ryan and Sharolyn Lampman, and Jacob and Daniel Ryan; brother Joe Ryan of Dayton, OH, sister Helen Jean and Andy Kuna of Darlington, WA, brother in law Marv Calson; and numerous nieces and nephews.