Ronald Ryker

Ronald Ryker, age 71, passed away suddenly on February 12, 2021. Ron was a disabled veteran, who proudly served his country during the Vietnam War. Ron had such an outgoing personality and never seemed to know a stranger. From countless days at the baseball diamond, to volunteering in the classroom, to standing up for the city he loved at a council meeting, his care for others had a far-reaching impact.

He was married to the love of his life, Melissa, for 38 years, and together they raised 6 amazing children.
Ron is preceded in death by his son, Ronald “Lee” Ryker and his ever beloved dog Blu. He has 5 surviving children: Jason Ryker, Teresa Phalen (Paul), Shannon Lopez (Victor), Christopher Ryker (Christina), and Jonathan Ryker, 14 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren, as well as several nieces and nephews to cherish his memory.

His love of country and love for his fellow brothers-in-arms spoke volumes. Although he was never a Prisoner of War, much of his life his image was defined by his black and white POW/MIA hat. He was a man that signed up for the Army during the Vietnam War and came home to an unforgiving country, made sure to thank every fellow service member for their service to the country that he so abundantly loved.

If he could have created perfect the day, there would be ice cold Coca-Cola, and definitely not that “diet crap”, flowing through his veins after washing down a hearty meal at White Castle. This, of course, would come after a day of sitting by the lake with his beard blowing in the breeze, listening to the sounds of nature, fishing pole in hand.

He spent his final months surrounded by family, friends and his dog Marley. He enjoyed the company of others and always laughed and joked in his usual fashion: “Why should I listen to a fat, out of shape physical therapist tell me what shape I should be in?” He always had an ability to make a room full of people laugh at his “dad jokes”.

We know he is no longer in pain and is now with his loved ones who welcome him home with open arms. He was loved by so many close friends and family, and he will be greatly missed. May God bless him on his journey.

Ron’s services will be on Tuesday, February 23, 2021 at Legacy Cremation & Funeral Services – Lawrence. Due to the pandemic, services will be private. Ron’s final resting place will be at Ryker’s Ridge Cemetery in Madison, IN. The family will be having a Celebration of Life in memory of Ron later in the year. Please check the website for updates on this information.