Stephen Ryan

Stephen M. Ryan was born on August 19, 1945, in Ventura, California, to Frank C. Ryan and Cecelia Valencia Ryan. He grew up in Seattle, Washington, alongside his siblings, Barbara Ryan (Parker-Dwyer) and Kenneth Ryan. Steve graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1964. Following graduation, Steve proudly served in the United States military from 1965 to 1966. After his service, he worked for several years in California before returning to Seattle to continue his education. Soon after returning to Seattle, Steve danced his way into Valerie Thornton's life. Just eleven days later, they were engaged. Steve and Valerie married and built a life together filled with love, raising two children, Sean Ryan and Suzie Ryan-Snell. Steve was a devoted husband, a wonderful father, and a proud grandfather. As a dad, he patiently spent countless hours at gymnastics competitions and dedicated hundreds of hours to coaching youth soccer. He was a creative leader in his church community and found great joy in serving others. One of his most meaningful roles was coaching Special Olympics at the School for the Deaf, working with students with multiple disabilities. He had a remarkable gift for connecting with people who needed extra support, kindness, and encouragement. Steve also enjoyed the simple pleasures in life, playing golf, sharing a beer, and spending time with his friends. In later years, as many of those lifelong friends passed away, he deeply felt their absence and treasured the memories they had made together. Nothing brought Steve greater joy than becoming "Grandpa." He proudly embraced the role six times over. Whether babysitting, attending school programs, cheering from the sidelines at countless soccer games, or entertaining everyone with his signature "Dad" jokes and endless puns, he delighted in making his grandchildren smile, even if they occasionally rolled their eyes. Throughout his life, Steve faced many health challenges. Through it all, he met each challenge with courage, determination, and an unwavering positive attitude. Steve is survived by his beloved wife, Valerie Ryan; his children, Sean Ryan (Traci) and Suzie Ryan-Snell (Jeff); his brother, Kenneth Ryan (Jody); and his six cherished grandchildren: Hanna Ryan, Mackenzie Snell, Stephen Snell, Aiden Ryan, Micah Snell, and Brianne Ryan. Steve will be remembered for his servant's heart, his unwavering love for his family, his sense of humor, and his willingness to help anyone in need. His kindness, strength, and gentle spirit leave a lasting legacy in the lives of all who knew and loved him. One of Steve's greatest joys was helping others. In keeping with that spirit, the family requests that, in lieu of flowers, memorial donations be made to Micah’s Miles. Gifts may be made in Steve's memory at Micahsmiles.org. We invite you to join us as we gather to celebrate Steve. The funeral service and lunch reception will be held starting at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at: St. Joseph's Catholic Church 400 S. Andresen Rd. Vancouver, WA 98661

Stephen Ryan

August 19, 1945 - July 22, 2026