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Ryan Woodward Obituary

CPL. RYAN A. WOODWARD, 22, died Saturday, Sept. 8, 2007, in Balad, Iraq. He was born in Fort Wayne, and was serving in the U.S. Army. Survivors include parents, Mike and Sue Woodward of Columbia City; sisters, Tasha and Brooke Woodward; and brother, Benjamin Woodward, all of Columbia City; grandparents, Phillip and Mary Woodward of Fort Wayne, and Roy and Winifred Stantz of Albion; and many aunts, uncles and cousins. Service is 1 p.m. Wednesday at Aboite Lutheran Church, 10312 Aboite Center Road, with calling one hour prior. Pastor Richard Pagan officiating. Calling also from 2 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesday at D.O. McComb & Sons Pine Valley Park Funeral Home, 1320 E. Dupont Road. Burial in Lindenwood Cemetery with Military Graveside Rites by the U.S. Army.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Fort Wayne Newspapers from Sep. 15 to Sep. 16, 2007.

Memories and Condolences
for Ryan Woodward

Not sure what to say?





Thankful for Brave Men like You!

May 29, 2023

Memorial Day 2023
Your sacrifice is not forgotten. May God grant your family and friends peace, comfort and strength.
Rest in peace.

Doug Woodward

May 27, 2023

You are always in my thoughts aand in my heart forever. Cousin,,

Christopher Hernandez

September 28, 2019

"Woody", I didn't know you personally, but we served side by side in that desert wasteland. Your name will forever be etched on my heart along with all the others who didn't make it back. I think about you guys every day. And every day I am thankful for your sacrifice, and strive to do proud by you. We didn't choose the war, we just chose to serve, and serve you did.

November 11, 2017

Ryan, you continue ue to be us. Your influence continues. God chose you for your greatness. You are the pride of vast family. You will never be forgotte. Doug,Nancy, Doug jr., Leslie, Nikki.

Susan

October 12, 2016

To the Family of Army Cpl. Ryan Woodward,

Please accept my condolences on the loss of your son, Ryan. His sacrifice will not be forgotten.
May you receive peace that surpasses our understanding, may you have joy remembering all of the times you were with him. May you have comfort and consolation during the times ahead.
May God bless Cpl. Woodward's family and friends.
A Grateful American.

Doug Woodward

September 11, 2012

Thinking of you this Sept. 11, 2012. We will never forget you cousin.

Peggy Childers

September 8, 2011

To the family and friends of Cpl. Ryan A. Woodward:
Please accept my remembrance of Ryan on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.

Melissa Smith

September 9, 2010

Today and everyday thinking of you.

Kelly Falls

September 8, 2010

Remembering Ryan today (and every day). I keep his memorial card in my Bible and look at his sweet face every day. My prayers are with your family.
Kelly Falls (his 3rd grade teacher)

Peggy Childers

September 8, 2010

To the family and friends of Cpl. Ryan A. Woodward:
Remembering Ryan on the anniversary of his passing. May our fallen heroes never be forgotten!
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org

March 14, 2010

May the Lord continue to bless your soul and the souls of all of the other fallen heroes.

Melissa Smith

March 13, 2010

Thinking of you today. Love you. Melissa

M Marcum

February 14, 2010

RIP Cpl. you will not be forgotten. thank you to the family and i am truly sorry for your loss and sacrifice.

geneva herbst

September 8, 2009

thinking of you today as I do many days Ryan
its still hard to believe your never coming home just like uncle jeff. Its hard to believe that its been 2 years since you went to meet our lord. God bless you sweet angel! You are forever in our hearts & prayers.
Love aunt G

Peggy Childers

September 8, 2009

To the family of Cpl. Ryan A. Woodward:
Ryan gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our fallen heroes be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org

March 19, 2009

thinking of you Ryan, with love auntie g.

Christine Hysell

December 28, 2008

Eternal rest grant unto thee O Lord, And let perpetual light shine upon Ryan. Rest in peace.
"Thank You Corp. Ryan for your courage!" Christine Woodward Hysell

Kenna Larra

December 13, 2008

We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families at this time. This is a Nonprofit Organization to honor are Soldiers!
FREE OIL ON CANVAS PAINTING OF THIS HERO. COMPLETE FORM AT WWW.HEROPAINTINGS.COM
Please contact us! Contact us directly at [email protected] or go to www.heropaintings.com. If you have already had a portrait completed, we pray that you are enjoying the portrait and God Bless You.
Sincerely,
Kenna

SPC.Matt Steinhaus

December 6, 2008

Well brother,its been a little over a year since you left us and the pain is still there. I wish that forone more time we could sit and talk about anything. You'llforever be in my mind and prayers and I know you are in a much better place than where you left from. I think of you daily and cant wait til the day where we can meet again until then, like we lways joked about....call me! I love you man and miss you severly. I'll be sure to carry your footsteps on. God I missyou man

Paul Woodward

October 6, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort. Ryan is our family hero and his sacrafice for us to live free will not be forgetten, ever. God Bless you,
Paul, Nancy, Nichole, Leslie, Doug

Aunt Sandy

September 8, 2008

Sue,Mike,Tasha,Brook,Ben,
I just want you all to know you all are very important to me and the lost of Ryan is no easier today than it was a year ago. Iam here for you all today tomorrow and forever. Rayn Aunt Sandy think of you often I take your picture down and give you a kiss and a hug and I know you are hugging me right back. Untill we meet again in heaven I love you and Miss you much. Aunt Sandy

Mrozinski Family

September 8, 2008

Dear Mike, Sue, Tasha, Brooke, and Ben,

We love you and we are thinking of you today. God Bless Ryan!
Love, Andy, Debbie, Aaron, and Emily

Randi & Carolyn Pearson

September 8, 2008

Ryan Woodward...God Bless you

In Memory of Ryan Andrew ~ (Debra Estep)

September 8, 2008

Holding you all in my thoughts and prayers.


The Wind on The Downs

“I like to think of you as brown and tall,
As strong and living as you used to be,
In khaki tunic, Sam Brown belt and all,
And standing there and laughing down at me.
Because they tell me, dear, that you are dead,
Because I can no longer see your face,
You have not died, it is not true, instead
You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe;
I hear you laughing as you used to do,
Yet loving all the things I think of you;
And knowing you are happy, should I grieve?
You follow and are watchful where I go.”

(Written by Marian Allen during World War l )

Two lines that I wish you to keep near your heart…….

“You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe”


I did not know Ryan, but I am remembering
his service. He is my hero. !

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The Other Side

i'm over on the other side
where life and death softly divide.
left my skin and bones behind
now i'm over on the other side.

can you feel me there with you?
my breath is gone but i'm not through.
loved you then and i still do
from over on the other side.

i can fly. really fly.
below the earth ... all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.

it's good here on the other side.
the sweetest songs...the bluest skies.
thank you for the tears you cried
but it's good here on the other side.

i can fly. really fly. below the earth...all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side

the world is smaller than a needle's eye.
where life and death softly divide.
when you leave your skin and bones behind
i'll be waiting on the other side.

i can fly. really fly. below the earth ... all through the sky.
go tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.

Song lyrics by Don Conoscenti
C Desert Muse/SESAC
www.donconoscenti.com
(Used with permission)

“I hope it brings great comfort to any and all.
Peace on you. DonCon” 4-2008


The Other Side –
(To hear the song)
http://tinyurl.com/3o8gol



Sincerely,

Deb Estep ~ Ohio
Proud Air Force Mom SSgt Vince – Lackland AFB
Proud Air Force MIL SrA Dana – Randolph AFB

Remembering The Fallen – Blog
http://tinyurl.com/3z8p55

Angel and soldier drawing I have shared here.
http://tinyurl.com/6gey8b

geneva herbst

September 3, 2008

Sue & Mike, Tasha, Brooke & Ben, Its hard to believe Ryan has been gone for almost a year now. Its hard to believe he is gone at all. I want you to know that I know how hard everyday still is without Ryan and that I feel your grief and sorrow. I know its so hard. I love you & want you to know that Ryan is alive in my heart & memories. I actually smile when thinking of him, even laugh. Its when I think of you the sorrow overwhelmes me. If theres anything I can do to help you get through the days ahead, please let me know. All my love and sympathy, Geneva

Brittany

August 31, 2008

I cannot believe it has almost been a year since you left this world as a hero and came back as an angel. You are missed by so many people. My thoughts are with you and your loved ones.

Kristy

August 29, 2008

To the Woodwards: My thoughts and prayers are still constantly with you and your family and I feel so blessed to have been able to meet Ryan. He is a true hero that will never be forgotten. You must be so incredibly proud to have had such a kind and inspirational son (and brother). My love and prayers are with you always.

Mrozinski Andy and Debbie

July 6, 2008

We are very sorry for the loss of Ryan. We think of him often and of his family and friends as they continue to live with the loss of him. Take care, we love you.

July 4, 2008

You are remembered and respected. Thank you Cpl Woodward!

Becky Coy

June 29, 2008

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and we thank god everyday for brave men & women like your soldier for defending our country. We are building a wall in honor of all those who have lost their lives in Iraq & Afghanistan. It's called Wall of Heroes. If you would like more information please contact me at [email protected].

Randi and Carolyn Pearson

March 2, 2008

To the family of Ryan Woodward,
As we drove down I-71 in Columbus, OH yesterday we came upon a car with a message on the rear window about the loss of a loved one. Having recently lost a loved one of our own, this naturally caught our attention. As we neared the car which exited at Broad St., where we also planned to exit, we were able to get close enough to read the details of your loss. Then it really hit home. You see, we lost our son on Oct. 10, 2007, just barely a month after your hero Ryan lost his life.

Thank you Ryan Woodward for volunteering to serve our great country. Thank you to the Woodward family. Your son and brother is an American hero. God bless you all. We mourn with you.

If you would ever feel like meeting with our family please contact us. We travel across 30 from Ohio occasionally to visit our daughter in Chicago.

Randi and Carolyn Pearson ([email protected])
Proud parents of Samuel F. Pearson KIA 10 Oct 2007 Baghdad, Iraq

Bill Woodward

October 26, 2007

My prayers and blessings go to all of our family members and my sincere and heartfelt thanks to Ryan and all of his brothers who have and are prepared to make the ultimate sacrifice in order to keep us a free nation.

October 13, 2007

To the Family and Friends of this Soldier:
I will stand in grief with this soldier's family to honor him. For every fallen HERO there is a bright star that shines in the evening sky to remind us of the cherished gift we were given – even if for too short a time.
My heart breaks again as I sign yet another guest book of another courageous young soldier who gave their life so selflessly. I wish I never found myself in a position to have to sign another guestbook for the rest of my life, but I promised Brent that neither he nor any like him would be forgotten and so I will continue until the day there is no longer the need.
We lost our son SFC Brent A. Adams on 12/1/05 and it seems like yesterday. I wish so badly there were things I could say to you right now to make the pain you are feeling go away, but I know first hand there simply are no words that will bring you the comfort and peace your heart aches for. Just know that you are not alone. My heart, thoughts, and prayers are with you all as you go through this tragedy moment by moment and as you mourn this loss.
We don't know each other, will probably never meet, but will forever be united in the loss of our Heroes. We have, unfortunately joined a group none of us wanted to join, an ever-growing group of families in this situation. May God grant you peace and strength to get through this and be able once again to smile at a memory rather than have only the tears that flow so easily now. To be so proud of your loved one and so saddened at the same time is a mix of emotions very difficult to deal with as our hearts both burst with pride and pain together.
I am sorry that I never knew your soldier personally. While they can never be replaced, neither will they ever be forgotten. You must trust that sometime, someday the loving memories you have will help to sustain you and help you go on. This courageous soldier will forever be your Angel watching over you all for the rest of your lives. It's what brings me some measure of peace and comfort and I hope it will you as well.
To his family and friends in pain, I offer this comfort: When you find yourself in that dark sorrowful place, think not only of how you will miss him, but instead recall the years, days, hours and minutes gifted to you by his presence. The one thing that cannot be taken from you is your wonderful memories that now will mean more than ever.
If you ever want to talk, I'm only an e:mail away and would love for you to tell me more about your Hero.
God Bless this soldier and family who gave all and God Bless legacy.com for setting up this site where families can so quickly share their condolences and prayers with others like themselves.
Proud Parents of SFC Brent A. Adams, KIA, 12/1/05, Ramadi, Iraq
Pam and Bill Adams, Lancaster, PA

Eric Rosendall

October 8, 2007

You will be missed, but never forgotten. Thanks for all the good memories.

Libby Fowler

October 4, 2007

To the family and friends of Cpl. Ryan A. Woodward: Please accept my heartfelt sympathy upon the loss of your soldier... the loss of "our" soldier. My heart gets heavier and heavier with each new name, and each new story of our lost soldiers. Know that you are in my prayers now and for the days to come. May we all find peace somehow out of this conflict. Please include my son, Spc. Crockett Fowler Butler, in your prayers. For now, he is safely stationed at Ft. Sill, Ok. but they have been notified to be ready to be deployed any minute. GOD BLESS CPL. RYAN A. WOODWARD AND GOD BLESS AMERICA!

Patrick Fraizer

October 3, 2007

'In the begining a Patriot is a scarce man, and brave, and hated, and scorned. When his cause succeeds, the TIMID join him, for then it cost nothing to be a Patriot'

As the Ride Captain, along with Curly & Donna Hiliard we and the PGR want your family to know that Ryan was a true PATRIOT. He "stood for US" and it was an honor for the Patriot Guard to stand for Ryan and your family. May God Bless all of you and please know that Ryan is safe and in Gods arms.

Angela Stahl (sister-in-law to Stan Blaskowski, brother of Matt)

October 2, 2007

I am so sorry for the loss of your beloved soldier. You do not grieve alone, for we have just lost our own hometown hero, he will be laid to rest this Thursday 10/04/07. Our hearts are broken. We thank God for our soldiers. I pray that God would wrap you in His loving arms and give you peace. May your memories of Ryan help to mend your broken hearts. God be with you.

Thank You, Cpl. Ryan A. Woodward, for your sacrifice.

Remembering SFC Matthew Dale Blaskowski
KIA 9/23/07
Our hearts grieve.

SFC Richard Flint

September 30, 2007

To the Woodward Family,
I send my deepest condolences for your lose. Ryan was a fanatastic soldier. I got to know him very personally since we were on the unit's basketball team together. His smile would light up the darkest room. I assure you his brother's in A Troop 1-73 Cav miss his presence every day. You raised a great son, great soldier and a great friend. Our prayers are with your family and Ryan will always be apart of ours. God Bless and Ryan you will always be missed but never forgotten brother R.I.P.(RECON)

Lindsey Martin

September 26, 2007

My heart truly does ache for the loss of you...someone who was such a good, genuine person. You were always so sweet to me and for that I thank you and will be thinking of you always. You are a true fallen soldier, a fallen hero and your family will be in my prayers... look over us all Woody.

With love always...

Chaplain Ralph Merrill Wetzel, VAMC

September 24, 2007

My heartfelt condolences to family and friends of Ryan who gave his life for the sake of freedom. God bless and comfort all who mourn his death that they may be comforted through our Savior, Jesus Christ, who will "bind up all wounds" and who alone brings the peace beyond our understanding in times of grief and sorrow. God bless you all!

Tiffany & Lori Kreider

September 24, 2007

Brook and Woodward Family
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Thank you Ryan for your sacrifice and we honor you.

Melissa Smith (Buhr)

September 24, 2007

You are missed so very much! We love you. Your cousin and family

Lauren Jones

September 22, 2007

Sue, Mike, Tasha, Brooke, and Ben...I can't tell you enough how special Ryan is to me. There isn't an hour that goes by that I don't think about him...and pray for you guys. You have all influenced my life in many ways since I was a kid...but most of all you have given me the best gift ever.. and that was the chance to meet, get to know, and love Ryan. I know it's a very difficult time for you all right now, but I hope you're able to find comfort in knowing how many lives Ryan truly touched, and how he spent months protecting each and every one of us, so we could have a better life on earth, and in turn God took him from us and rewarded him with a better life in Heaven. I love you all so much, and I really hope you're able to find peace knowing Ryan is in a better place, and taking care of us everyday. Thanks for everything. I love you all. God Bless our fallen solider..RIP.

Jennifer Kelmer

September 22, 2007

Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.

Sarah Comparet

September 21, 2007

Woody,
I was at the place I last saw you last night and all I wished I could see was you sitting in that chair calling my name and giving me your famous smile. You have the greatest family and group a friends anyone could ask for. I just want to tell you not only am I proud to have known you but I want to thank you for fighting for our country. It truly makes me proud to be an American!! You will be missed but NEVER forgotten. Please watch over all of us!!

The Staff at Harlow Enterprises, Inc.

September 21, 2007

Mike, Sue and Family,
Our thughts and prayers are with all of you at this most difficult time.

Tom Gugliuzza

September 21, 2007

My heartfelt sympathy to the Woodward family in the loss of Ryan. I did not know Ryan, but my heart is broken and I am saddened for your loss of such a fine young person and hero. May God bring you peace in your heart as you reflect on all the wonderful memories you hold so close. Please know that you are in my heart and prayers. My heart was touched by the many wonderful/beautiful things written about you. Ryan you are my hero and you will NEVER be forgotten.
I send each of you a hug from the most inner part of my heart.
Love and Peace
Tom

"To live in the hearts
of those you leave behind
is never to die"
~Robert Orr~

September 20, 2007

Thank you for the sacrifice made by Cpl Woodward and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses him! May God bless all of you!!

Tyler Morgan

September 20, 2007

Woody you will be missed but never forgotten. You were a great guy. Thank you for your patriotism. A true fallen hero.

Laura Dinkel-Grosjean

September 19, 2007

Dear Woodward Family,
I am heartbroken for your devastating loss. Your family played an important role in my life and I'll always remember that. I realize now more than ever how lucky my family and I are that my younger brother was able to come home to us after serving in the army.
Tasha and I used to take turns driving my brother and Ryan to and from school. I'll never forget those days.
My family and I have all of you in our thoughts and prayers.

Jonathan Horne

September 19, 2007

As a member of the Fort Wayne Police Department Pipes and Drums, I was honored to be allowed to participate in your service. I thank you and your family for your service and sacrifice. I take comfort in knowing that you are a piece of the fabric of Warriors woven to protect this great nation! From my family to yours.....Thank You, God Bless and we will never forget.
John 15:13 "Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down his life for his friends."

1SG R. Ochsner

September 19, 2007

CPL Wodward was a fine young Trooper. Competitive but friend to all. An example to all the Soldiers. His bravery on that day will not be forgotten. As his 1 SG I was honored to have him in my Troop and had high expectations for him. He IS Greatly missed.

" If you are wounded
I will carry you

If you are captured
I will come for you

if you are Killed
I will remember you

Linda Barnes

September 19, 2007

Mr. & Mrs. Woodward,

I sat on the side of the road today and cried when Ryan's funeral procession was passing us and going to his grave site. I too, have lost a son, Ian, and the pain is heart renching.

You have raised a hero. Ryan will always be in our hearts for his dedication to his country, the love of his country, defending us at home, and his ultimate sacrifice. Because of him, we have our freedom.

You are loved by many and you will have the support that you need by God and your many family members and friends. And Ryan will be closer than ever to you, as Ian now is to me.

God Bess you and your family as you grieve for your wonderful son and brother.

In Prayer,
Linda Barnes

Just passin' through...

September 19, 2007

To the Woodward family: I hope that God will bless all of you with comfort and peace at this time. I would just like to say Thank You, Ryan, for the courage and bravery that you so unselfishly gave for our country. As an American, I am so proud. God Bless you all!

Ivy Fett

September 19, 2007

Sue,Mike and children
I am sry about ur lose with Ryan and i hope everything goes better in the future with the rest of ur children and i hope nothing happens to Kevin and Sandy Dlabay's son that is over there as i write this to u. Good luck in the future
Sincerely
Jon and Ivy Fett

Debbie (Andy's wife) Mrozinski

September 19, 2007

Dear Sue, Mike,and family,
We are so sorry about the loss of Ryan. Andy has talked about all the fun times he has shared with your family (esp. all the fun times he shared with your kids). Remember those memories about Ryan and don't ever forget. Ryan was a brave and dedicated soldier. You should be very proud of him. We love you guys and will always be here if you need us.
Love, Andy and Debbie Mrozinski and family

Terri hoopingarner

September 19, 2007

Dear woodward family:
I am very sorry for your unbelievable loss. Ryan was one of my son's football buddies and Richie was very fortunate to have known Ryan. I will always have your family in my thoughts.

Tom & Mary Garman

September 19, 2007

Dear Woodward Family,
Our hearts are heavy with the loss of your son. We are so very grateful to Ryan for his dedication and devotion to God, family and country. You are all in our thoughts, hearts and prayers. We pray that the wonderful memories you hold dear and the love and prayers of those who care will help ease your grief. Ryan is our hero and is now in the presence of his Lord and Saviour awaiting the reunion that you will all have someday. Thank you Mr. & Mrs. Woodward for raising such a wonderful son and sharing him with the world....God bless all of you!!!

Tom and Mary Garman

Wendy Vieyra

September 19, 2007

Thank you Cpl Ryan Woodward for your bravery and your sacrifice. Words cannot express my gratitude. Mike and Sue and Woodward family, I am so sorry for your loss. My heart aches for you and your pain.

Erie Haven Staff

September 19, 2007

Mike, Sue & Family,
Our deepest sympathy to you and your family. You will be in our prayers. God Bless.

Steve Cleghorn

September 19, 2007

May your sweet boy rest in peace. However history may judge the reasons for or consequences of this war, your young man will remain a soldier who did his duty (and much more, too, I am sure, in your memories); and just as Jesus understood the Roman soldier who appealed to Him to heal his son, and sent his angels to do so, may God bring healing and comfort to your family via His angels' blessed chain of command.

Steve Woznick

September 18, 2007

My deepest sympathy for your loss.

U L

September 18, 2007

Mike,Sue & Kids
I would like to express my deepest sympathy, Ryan was a ray of sunshine
to whoever knew him. Our family has been truly blessed to have him. While this has been a great loss to us, its a new begining for Ryan. Try to focus on the 22 years God gave you a ray of sunshine, and to new begining.

Nan DiGangi

September 18, 2007

My thoughts and prayers are with each of you-I can't image what you are going through. My son Cam was one of Woody's friends and in the Army as well-we will all miss him. I'm so sorry for your loss.

Denise

September 18, 2007

You and your smile will live on in my heard forever, Woody. Love always...

Robert & Tracy May

September 18, 2007

To Mike, Sue and Family,

No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. Our deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.

The McCue Family

September 17, 2007

To the family and friends of CPL Ryan
We are all sorry for your loss. May God give you comfort and strength in this time of grief. Our thoughts and Prayers are with you.
GOD BLESS

Donald Kemp

September 17, 2007

I am so sorry to hear that this has happened. I have known your family for a long time. I pray that God will give you an inner peace. May God comfort you. It's hard to lose a child. I know.

Allison Roehling - Sauter

September 17, 2007

To Mike and Sue,
Mike, I was your neighbor a long time ago. And I remember when you met Sue. We moved before you got married.

Want you and Sue to know, that your entire family, are in our families thoughts and prayers. Your son, is clearly, a son to be proud of!

Allison (Roehling) Sauter

Uncle Art and Aunt Di

September 17, 2007

Ryan,
Thank you for giving us one of our most cherished gifts in our lives, being our nephew. In such a short life time you gave so much to so many and your memory will live forever in their hearts. We will try our best to bring peace, love, strength, and hope to our entire family because you have shown us that God's arms are wide open. We love you and you will always be near and dear to our hearts.

September 17, 2007

My love and prayers go out to you, the Woodward family, at this difficult time. Your son is forever a hero to this country and to all who loved him.

Jim Woodward

September 17, 2007

Cpl. Ryan A. Woodward
I am going to miss you.
The sacrifice you have made for your country and for our family makes me proud to be your uncle. Ryan, you have finally gone home; and if we remain faithful the separation will be only temporary. You are now in the Loving Arms of our Lord and can watch over us all.
You are truely my Hero.
Love,
Uncle Jim

Hailey Roxanne Woodward

September 17, 2007

Hey Ryan,
hailey here. You little cusin. I know we didnt know eacxh other very well. but you will always be remembered. I dont think I ever saw you upset or angry, but i only saw you as a happy cheerfull young man. I feel pain for your family; who loved you very much so. And hope you know we are all very proud of you. You are like my brother says a legacy now and we were very greatfull to have you as our family. You were and still are a proud victiam of being called a "woody" ha. im called little woody. like im some kind of little kid. but yeah Im missing you its not fair that we lose the ones we love the most. You make me so proud that you defended your country tho. i love you Ryan a. Woodward.

love your cousin.
Hailey.

ANGIE

September 17, 2007

TO A MARINE FAMILY FROM A MARINE FAMILY. YOU AND YOUR FAMILY ARE IN OUR PRAYERS. RYAN IS A HERO....SIMPER FI

The Woodwards

September 17, 2007

To Our Family:

Sometimes there are no words or actions to express those things that are deepest in our hearts, but in the quiet moments, when the hurt is hard to bear, may love become your shelter and may the beauty of precious memories be your comfort.
We thank him for being so brave and fighting so strong for us, he gave the ultimate sacrifice and we love him deeply for that.

Ryan will live on in the hearts of everyone who loved him.

Much love,
Paul, Amy, Bradley, Caleb, Dustin, and Levi

ASHLEY CONNER

September 17, 2007

RYAN~
IT TRUELY SADDENS ME TO SIT HERE AND READ ALL OF THE WONDERFUL THINGS EVERYONE HAS TO SAY TO YOU AND YET YOU'LL NEVER GET THE CHANCE TO READ THEM. YOU ARE AN AMAZING GUY WHO MANY LOOKED UP FOR INSPIRATION! YOU ALWAYS WEAR THAT BEAUTIFUL SMILE AND HAVE SO MANY WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT FOR EVERYONE AROUND YOU WHO EVER NEEDED THEM! YOU TRUELY TOUCH MANY LIFES AND FOR THAT YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN.YOU HAVE LEFT FOOT PRINTS ON MAY PEOPLES HEARTS AND I'M PROUD TO SAY THAT I GOT THE CHANCE TO KNOW THE WONDERFUL PERSON YOU TRUELY ARE. YOU WILL BE MISSED BY ALL! YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY ARE ALL IN MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS! THANKS FOR EVERYTHING YOU HAVE DONE FOR YOUR FRIENDS, FAMILY, AND COUNTRY!

Sue Woodward

September 17, 2007

Ryan, Hi! This is mom. My heart aches for you. I have been so blessed to have such a wonderful son that is a part of our family. You brought sunshine to all of us. Your smile is magnetic. I will miss you tremendously. I LOVE YOU ILOVE YOU I LOVE YOU LOVE MOM

Greatful Americans from Ft. Wayne

September 17, 2007

To the Woodward family,
Your son and all of the soldiers we have lost are heroes. They fought bravely and sacrificed everything for us to be free. Our hearts break at your loss. Please know we are grieving with you.

Carrie

September 17, 2007

I am so sorry for your loss. Your son was a hero and you should very proud of him!

Debbie Frazier

September 16, 2007

To Ryan's family,

All families, former and present from Carroll High School feel your loss! May you know that our prayers are with you!
Tom, Debbie, Rick (classmate),Doug, Phillip,and Mary(Halter)Frazier

becky haynes

September 16, 2007

I want to thank you for being so brave. My heart , prayers and thoughts are with your family at this time.

Sandy and Bob Ochsner

September 16, 2007

To the family of Ryan Woodward we would like to extend our condolences to you. We are the parents of Ryans 1Sgt Robb Ochsner We are also Gold Star parents. We will keep you in our prayers during these diffcult days.

Gwen Sordelet

September 16, 2007

My Deepest Sympathy for your Family – Your Son who Chose to Serve and Protect Our Country is a “Hero” to Us All -
God Bless You.

Sandy White

September 16, 2007

Dear Woodward Family, Our family wishes to extend our condolences to your entire family for the loss of Ryan. Our daughter Shelly and Brooke were friends thru school. As motorcyclists,we were honored as we participated with the Patriot Guard at Ryans homecomming on Sunday morning. It was truley a honor and quite a humble experience as we stood there to show our support for such a great hero. May God bless all of you and help you as you begin the healing process. Ryan is truley a hero in all our eyes.
David and Sandy White and Family

Rebecca Hessling(conductress vfw post 10555

September 16, 2007

for the family of ryan woodward i send my deepest sympathy to all of you family thak you ryan for the ultimate sacrafic thak you for our freedom pennys from haven today i found a penny just laying on the ground but its not just a penny this little coin i've found found pennyscome from haven thats what my dad told me he said angels toss then down oh how i loved that story he said when a angel misses you they toss a penny dowm sometimes just to you up make a smile out of your frown so pass by that penny when youre feeling blue it may be a penny from haven that ryan has tossed to you

Cathy Kelsey

September 16, 2007

Dear Mike, Sue & family,
I know there are no words to console at a time like this, but please know you're all in our thoughts & prayers. Your son has made the ultimate sacrifice & we are humbled by that. Although I didn't know Ryan, I know the kind of people his parents are, so I'm sure he was a wonderful young man. We'll always remember Ryan and the many other soldiers who have given their lives, as HEROS. May GOD be with you during the difficult time ahead. I'm sure Ryan is smiling down on you & watching over you all. GOD BLESS YOU ALL
Todd & Cathy

Christopher Italiano

September 16, 2007

My familiest deepest sympathies and prayers are with you. Thank you for giving our country a great American Hero. God Bless your family and God Bless America.

September 15, 2007

Thank you Ryan and God bless you.

Tim & Dianne Raupfer

September 15, 2007

May God Bless Cpl. Ryan Woodward and may He give strength and comfort to his family.

TERRANCE & NORMA CLOSSON

September 15, 2007

OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHIES ARE WITH YOU AT THIS TIME OF GRIEF. MAY YOUR SON BE THE SERVENT OF GOD AND REST IN THE HOUSE OF THE LORD IN PEACE AND TRANQUILTY.

charlene volkert

September 15, 2007

Dear Woodward family,
I want to express my deepest sympathy in you time of loss.
I would like to take the time to express my appreciation for the ultimate sacrafice that your son made for my freedom. It is a shame that our freedom has to come with such a high price. We do not express our gratitude to our servicemen and their families for the extreme sacrafices they give for each and everyone of us.
You are all in my prayers and thoughts.
Proud to be an American
Charlene and Allan Volkert

September 15, 2007

Dear Woodward family,
I want to express my deepest sympathy in you time of loss.
I would like to take the time to express my appreciation for the ultimate sacrafice that your son made for my freedom. It is a shame that our freedom has to come with such a high price. We do not express our gratitude to our servicemen and their families for the extreme sacrafices they give for each and everyone of us.
You are all in my prayers and thoughts.
Proud to be an American
Charlene and Allan Volkert

Justin Woodward

September 15, 2007

Matthew 12:30
He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathered not with me scattered a brood.
Ryan is with us. He takes pride in things he did and did them well. Ryan never failed. You can not fail if you take the risk. He is the Arena, face is marred by the sweet, dust, and blood. Striving Valiantly. He knows he spent himself on the worthiest of causes. Ryan’s place will NEVER be with those cold and timid souls who know neither victory nor defeat.
Without Ryan, and others like him, we would not have the rights and freedoms we have. Freedom really isn’t free as we all can see. Ryan Fights for those freedoms and rights so others may enjoy the same that we all enjoy and often take for granted. Ryan will always fight for them, until the end of time.
Ryan did nothing wrong. He could not be pressured or persuaded to do so. He knows what is right and does it at all cost. Ryan is ambitious, motivated and determined. Ryan is dedicated to the cause.
So let Ryan be a motivator to us all. Let him and his legacy give each of us the ambition to strive for greatness. Let Ryan’s spirit live and guide us to do the right and not the wrong, to give us all strength. Let Ryan live on in our actions, thoughts and prayers. Ryan lets us all know that anything can be done. ACTIONS SPEEK LOUDER THAN WORDS. RYAN IS A MAN OF GREAT ACTION.

Love you Woody, you'll be in my heart forever. Justin

Laura (Toam) Marker

September 14, 2007

My heart is broken for the Woodward family. Although I didn't know Ryan, I went to school with his sister, Tasha. I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.

September 14, 2007

Mike,Sue and family
Our deepest sympathy to you and your family. Ryan was surrounded by a loving family and good group of friends . Ryan was a great young man and will be missed by all of us . He will forever be in our prayers.
Kirk,Judy,Danny,Kelley,Erynn Meiklejohn

JERNICE WATSON

September 14, 2007

OUR PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU

ST JOSEPH HOSPITAL ED STAFF

Debra Blair

September 14, 2007

Mike:
I'm sure you don't remember me but we went to high school together. Please accept my deepest sympathy for the loss of Ryan and my thanks for raising such a hero. My nephew, Cpl. Jonathon Blair was taken from us in Iraq almost 2 years ago. He was with the 101st Airborne out of Fort Campbell. My prayers are with you and your family during this sorrowful time.
Debbie (Tuggle) Blair

Dave & Jackie Church

September 14, 2007

We were deeply saddened when we recieved the news about Woody. When he visited our home near Higgins Lake with Danny and the many times we saw him in Fort Wayne he was a sweet, polite, respectful young man. He will be sadly missed by many. Our deepest sympathy and sincere condolences to your family.

Jack & Judy Knudson

September 14, 2007

Cpl. Woodward. We want to thank you from the bottom of our hearts for giving so much to protect our freedom and rights in this wonderful country. May God Bless you always now that you are with him in heaven.

Linda

September 14, 2007

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.

Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2007

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