The Tragic Loss of Reed Ryan: A Mourned Football Player at Minnesota-Duluth
In a hearTrending turn of events, the University of Minnesota-Duluth is grieving the loss of Reed Ryan, a cherished member of their football team. It was with heavy hearts that the Ryan Family announced on Tuesday that Reed had passed away unexpectedly post-workout in the school’s weight room. At the tender age of 22, his departure from this world has left many in shock and sadness.
The Unexpected Farewell
In the wake of his sudden demise, the Ryan family penned a poignant obituary. They disclosed that Reed suffered a cardiac arrest, citing the cause as “an undetected genetic heart condition.” Fortunately, he was swiftly tended to, receiving CPR from the school’s training team. Subsequently, he was rushed to the ICU at St. Mary’s-Duluth Hospital. Sadly, despite their efforts, they couldn’t restore his pulse.
A Beacon of Positivity and Ambition
The UMD head football coach, Curt Wiese, expressed the overwhelming grief that the staff and players are experiencing. In his statement, Curt highlighted that Reed was the kind of person who strove to improve at every opportunity. More importantly, he inspired those around him. His positive attitude, infectious smile, and care for his community were unparalleled. Reed’s impact on the program and the lives he touched was profound, even in his brief time with them.
Reed Ryan: A Life Celebrated
Reed was known for his contagious smile and the zeal with which he approached life. His presence was a gift to those who knew him, always conversing and cherishing his time with his friends, family, and mentors. His interests were diverse; from successfully curating an online vintage store named Thrifted Tiger to relishing travels, collecting shoes, indulging in drawing, attending concerts, and expressing his love for cooking.
An Illustrious Athletic Journey
Reed’s athletic career was no less notable. He had a remarkable tenure at North Dakota State University for four seasons before transferring to MDU. He was a pivotal part of NDSU’s team, helping them clinch two NCAA Division I AA FCS National titles in 2019 and 2021. While with the Bulldogs, he made significant contributions on the defensive end, recording eight tackles across nine games and achieving a notable sack that showcased his defensive prowess.
A Community United in Grief
UMD director of athletics, Forrest Karr, also brought to light Reed’s profound impact on those around him. Reed was widely recognized as a kind-hearted and thoughtful individual, invariably intent on uniting people together. Admired in multiple communities from Waunakee to Fargo and Duluth, Reed’s absence has left a palpable void. Forrest’s ties to Reed’s hometown established an even more personal Connection to this tragedy.
Supporting Each Other in Difficult Times
In times of grief, words often fall short, but the overriding sentiment shared by Reed’s loved ones is evident. The support pouring in for Reed’s family, friends, and his teammates reflects the impact he had on his community. They stand together, consoled by collective memories and the enduring spirit that Reed embodied as a Bulldog.
Remembering Reed: A Legacy That Endures
As Curt Wiese aptly put it, Reed Ryan was the epitome of a UMD Bulldog – resilient, spirited, and unwaveringly positive. His legacy is one of camaraderie, determination, and joyous engagement with life. As the UMD Bulldogs grieve, they also find strength in the memory of a teammate who exemplified the finest qualities one could aspire to. Reed’s vibrant life, though brief, leaves an indelible impression on everyone he touched. The community thanks his family for sharing Reed with them, assuring that his influence and legacy will live on as a guiding light and an inspiration for future Bulldogs.
As we reflect on Reed’s life and contributions, we’re reminded of the vitality and compassion he brought to every space he entered. The Minnesota-Duluth football program has indeed lost a shining star, but his memory will continue to inspire and guide both current and future generations of athletes and individuals. Today, we stand with the University of Minnesota-Duluth and the Ryan family in mourning the loss of a remarkable young man whose existence, though tragically short, was immensely meaningful.
