Ryan, Dan P.
Dan Ryan, 48, of Farmington, died Friday, January 2, 2009, surrounded by family and friends.
Dan lost his three year battle with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease) but most assuredly won the war of life.
Dan was born December 19, 1960. Blessed with an unmatched work ethic and uncanny mechanical skills, Dan achieved and excelled in the family-run business of Genz-Ryan Plumbing and Heating and as founder of DPR Motorsports. Dan loved his mechanical trades business and his hobbies: racing, hunting, snowmobiling and of course Bud Light. Dan loved his family more than anything, without reservations.
A 1979 graduate of Rosemount High School, Dan was preceded in death by his friends John Strese and Roy Ruzicka, and his niece Chloe Boyum.
Dan is survived by wife of 28 years, Lisa (nee Boyum); children Alison Gilbertson (Troy), Jacob and Dan Jr; parents Jack and Margie Ryan and Gary and Connie Boyum; brothers Mike, Tom, Bob, Marc (Dianne) and Jon (Nicolle); grandson Tanner Gilbertson; brother-in-law Todd Boyum (Stephanie); and 15 nieces and nephews. Dan is also survived by legions of friends, associates, visitors and helpers that Lisa and the kids want to thank for their boundless love and devotion throughout Dan’s illness.
Visitation at Elko Speedway, Elko, Minn., Tuesday, 3-8 pm. Funeral 11 am Wednesday, St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Rosemount, Minn. Burial to follow. Lunch at Rosemount Community Center to follow.
In lieu of flowers or gifts, Dan’s family has set up a memorial fund, which will donate all funds received to “A Race Worth Winning – ALS“, a non-profit organization set up by Dan’s closest friends and family members, with the sole purpose of supporting families who are dealing with the horrible effects of ALS. Donations made payable to: Dan Ryan Memorial Fund, c/o Vermillion State Bank, PO Box 28, Vermillion, MN 55085.
We shall never forget and will always love you.
