John Ryan

John Kenneth Ryan, age 85, left this earth, August 28th, 2011, to be with Jesus. Ken was born October 8th, 1925 to Al and Gladys Ryan in Indiahoma, Oklahoma. He was the second of seven boys born to this union, and grew up in Weslaco, Texas. Ken joined the United States Marine Corps at the age of seventeen and was an Iwo Jima survivor. He came home from the war and met the love of his life, Naomi Joyce Labar and they married August 29, 1946. They were married 60 years. Ken graduated from the University of Oklahoma and pursued a lifelong career as a geological engineer. Ken loved the Lord. His heart's desire was to lead men to Christ, whether it be in an office downtown or a prison cell. He is preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Joyce; brothers, Homer and Richard Ryan; and son-in-law, John Rackley. He is survived by his sweet wife, Anita, who blessed his life abundantly; his daughter, Victoria Rackley of Corpus Christi, Texas; his sons, Tim Ryan of Harlingen, Texas and Ron (Nita) Ryan of Killeen, Texas; grandsons, Shane Rackley and Heath Rackley of Corpus Christi, Texas, and Joshua Ryan of Killeen, Texas; brothers, Leo Ryan, Bill Ryan, Jack Ryan and Wes Ryan; numerous nieces, nephews and many wonderful friends. "To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord." 2 Corinthians 5:8. Memorial services will be conducted at 3 P.M. Friday, September 2, 2011 at River Hills Baptist Church in Calallen, Texas with Bro. Bill Simmons officiating. Interment will follow in Evergreen Cemetery in Odem, Texas