Robert (Bob) Ryan of Holland passed away in his home on Wednesday, August 4, 2021 surrounded by his family. He was 74 years old. Bob was born November 7, 1946 in San Mateo, California to James and Jessica Ryan. He lived in Portland, Salt Lake City, and Toronto before moving to Fremont, Michigan where he attended high school. After graduating from Fremont High in 1964, he went on to attend the University of Michigan where he earned his bachelor’s degree in 1969. While attending U of M he met his wife, Diane (DeWeese) Ryan. They were married in 1968 and shared 53 wonderful years of marriage and two children together. Bob began his automotive career at Cars and Concepts. He moved with his family to Holland, Michigan in 1983 to begin work at Prince Corporation in an industry he truly loved. Bob enjoyed fly fishing, traveling the world with his wife and spending time at his favorite places in Torch Lake, Destin, FL, Sanibel Island, FL, and Bozeman, MT. He was a passionate car enthusiast and an avid Michigan Wolverine fan. What he loved most of all, however, was spending time with his family including his three grandchildren. Bob is known for his generosity, friendship, and love of life. He was always doing things for other people. Bob is survived by his wife, Diane, son, Chris Ryan of Bozeman, MT, daughter Kelly (Nick) Schetzsle of West Lafayette, IN, and grandchildren Ryan, Drew, and Austen Schetzsle. He is also survived by his sisters, Dr. Carolyn (Tom) Burt, Maureen (Nick) Maniaci, and brother Jim (Kimberly) Ryan as well as many nieces and nephews that loved him dearly. A private Celebration of Life will be held with family and close friends. For a more lasting memorial, friends are asked to consider donating to the University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center.
Dear Diane, Chris and Kelly:
We have many memories of Bob. Remember when our 2 Bobs, Chris and about 5 other boys went to Muskegon State Park for a birthday camp out for Steve’s birthday, and it rained?! Boy, I have never seen such tired and crabby looking men and boys the next day when they came home. Diane, do you remember when we went to a function in GR and Bob Hope stepped out of the elevator? Your Bob was the only one of us four who had the presence of mind to shake his hand! So many memories. Can’t believe he is gone.
- Bob and Mary Mooi
Bob will always be a close personal friend. We shared so many memories of work life that ranged over several topics: conversations about Prince and how to navigate being there; driving around the Detroit area before attending meetings and just talking; a road trip with Stewart and Lowell; being a part of The Three Musketeers or Amigos with Garry; just being a dependable and trustworthy co-worker. If Bob said he was going to do something, he did it. Bob was a CAR GUY, living it daily. I miss Bob and his infectious engagement.
Diane/Kelly/Chris, you should all feel very proud of Bob and his many achievements.
- Lou Kincaid
I was so sorry to hear of Bob’s passing. I always enjoyed working with him at Prince Corp. Prayers for peace during this time for Diane and your family.
- Gwen Auwerda
Bob Ryan gave me an opportunity to work for him at Prince Corporation in marketing (with no prior experience).
We toured all of the advanced design studios for GM, Chrysler, Ford and Calty Design where we met Stewart Reed who eventually became Prince VP of Design - I will never forget that trip we took together.
I recently retired after 30 years of marketing management and credit Bob’s trust and confidence in me for a rewarding career in marketing.
One enduring characteristic about Bob - he always wore Cordovan Penny Loafers and he never just walked he was always hustling with enthusiasm and if you needed to talk to him - you had to keep his pace. (Light Jogging)
I owe any success I’ve had in marketing to Bob and I am deeply honored to have had the privilege of working for him.
- Keith Maki
I’m so sorry to hear of Bob’s passing. I’ve known him almost my whole life, first as our neighbor and then as a family friend. He will be missed!
- Allison Weller Kline
Diane and family so sorry to hear that Bob died. I knew him since 1989 when I build his house on Riley. It was alway enjoyable to have coffee with him since then. I’ll really miss that. He as a very interesting person. Praying for the family . Larry and Peg Busscher
- Larry Busscher
We’re so sorry to learn of Bob’s passing. Bob was a colleague and friend from whom I learned so much about the automotive industry, amongst many other life lessons. Our sincere sympathy is sent to Diane, the children and grandchildren. May Bob Rest In Peace.
- Steve & Nancy Spykman
David and I are so sorry to hear about Bob’s
passing.
We send our heart felt condolences to Diane
and her family.
- David and Jane McLaughlin
I remember visiting with Bob and Diane at Aubrey’s wedding. (Our beloved cousin, Joan’s daughter). He was so vivacious and healthy looking. I reminded him of how he and Maureen would walk to my Jr.high and walk home with me whenever they would visit. Such a sweet memory of many, many days gone past.
My love to Carolyn, Maureen, Jimmy and all the rest of family.
God Bless and keep you all safe…
- Julie Ryan Carragher
So sorry to hear of Bob’s passing. Denege and I have many fond memories of Bob while we were at Prince. Rest in Peace
- Brad and Denege Burrows
My cousin Bobby was so nice to me and all of us growing up. He became even more handsome as he aged and reminds me now of his dad, my uncle Jim. A new star twinkles in the sky snd will shine forever! 💜Love your Cali cousin, Nancy
- Nancy Ryan Finnegan
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