Thomas P Ryynanen

1960 - 2017

Thomas (Tom) P. Ryynanen, 57 years, a resident of Kent, Washington, passed away Saturday, April 22, 2017 at home surrounded by loved ones, following a lengthy illness.

Tom was born on January 7, 1960, in Hancock, Michigan, a son of Roger E. Ryynanen, and late Gloria A. (Tikkanen) Ryynanen, of Calumet, MI. Tom is survived by his 5 siblings: James (Janel) Ryynanen of Cokato, MN, Kathleen (Robert) Jeromchek of Port Ludlow, WA, Daniel (Cindy) Ryynanen of Hobart, WA, Martin Ryynanen of Pahrump, NV, and Steven (Lorna) Ryynanen of Dassel, MN. Also, survived are his 26 wonderful nieces and nephews, including 1 great-niece and 4 great-nephews all whom he cherished and loved. He is also survived by the love of his life, and best friend, Christina L. Howe of Kent, WA. and her daughter Tiffany K. Tesmer, who held an extra special place in his heart. Others close at heart were his in-laws, Robert L. and Arlene F. (Schwarz) Howe of Redmond, WA, and brother-in-law Douglas L (Debbie) Howe of Snohomish, WA, along with his late dog Meila, who was his shining pride and joy.

In 1964 Tom’s family moved from Michigan to Washington state where they eventually settled in Renton, WA. Taking full advantage of the natural beauty that the Pacific Northwest style of living has to offer, the Ryynanen family spent countless hours enjoying the many outdoor activities that Tom grew to love. Family bonding and outings included snow-skiing, camping, bicycling, hiking, fishing, and dirt-bike riding. In his teen years Tom began excelling in auto mechanics and could often be found working on, or racing his chopped VW Baha, Dodge Dart, or other countless car projects he enjoyed throughout the years. Tom was a graduate from Issaquah High School, class of 1978.

In 1987 Tom met Christina L. Howe, a neighbor to their family’s residence. They became instant best friends. As years passed, their friendship blossomed into a long lasting, loving relationship, where they thrived off one another’s shared hobbies, strengths, knowledge and energy. Tom and Christina enjoyed combining their ideas and talents which shows in their many projects, including winding retaining walls, stone planter boxes, and other stone creations that lead down to their picturesque park like pond and garden area, to their one of a kind stone fireplace and special masonry features found throughout the home which they shared for the past several decades. They also shared a deep appreciation for the beauty and tranquility of the family’s waterfront vacation homes in the San Jan Islands where they enjoyed spending quality time with close family and friends.

Tom was highly skilled in many occupations that included baker, Alaska fisherman, Bobcat services, and auto, diesel and vessel mechanic. Upon returning from his final Alaska run, Tom began working for his life-long friend, and mentor, Jim B. Messer of Messer Construction Company. In addition to the 23 years he worked with Jim, Tom was often sought out for help due to his extraordinary ability to fix or fearlessly tackle any project that he set his mind to. He could be found working various side jobs for family and friends. He quickly became known as the “go to guy”, whenever anyone was stumped on a task that needed troubleshooting, or just a quick answer.

Tom was often described as a simple man, with a heart of gold and a sense of humor to match. He could and would do anything for those he came to know and love. A highly skilled and knowledgeable man, who’s creativity, and talents which he poured so much of himself into, simply knew no bounds, or limits.

As Tom slipped away from the hands of his loved ones on April 22, 2017 to be joined with our Lord in Heaven, those of us left behind are blessed to be surrounded by so much of his art work, creative masonry work, and his whimsical creations, which all remain a true testament to his incredible talents as an artist. His friends and loved ones will be touched by these gifts that Tom left behind.

At Tom’s request, there will be no formal funeral. It was his wish that there be a celebration of life, where family and friends could gather together, to share fond memories, fun times, and for everyone to reflect on the lifetime of cherished time spent with Tom.

The Celebration of Life is being planned for September. The details will be posted at a later date. You can also contact Christina or other family members directly for more information.