Traverse City, Michigan
CENTRAL LAKE — Ryan R. Shay, 28, of Flagstaff, Ariz., formerly of Central Lake, died Saturday, Nov. 3, 2007, in Manhattan, N.Y. He was born May 4, 1979, the son of H. Joseph and Susan (Case) Shay, in Ypsilanti.
Ryan graduated in 1997 from Central Lake High School as class valedictorian. During his high school years he ran cross country and track, becoming an 11-time high school state champion. After high school he attended Notre Dame University on a full ride athletic scholarship. He broke several records in his fours years there and was a nine-time All American. After college, he became a very accomplished, elite professional runner.
Ryan was a Christian man who found solace in being outdoors where he could enjoy the beauty of nature. His favorite pastimes were fishing and playing guitar.
On July 7, 2007, in Jackson Hole, Wyo., Ryan married the love of his life, Alicia Craig, who survives. Also surviving are his parents of Central Lake; three sisters, Jodie Kleymeer of Clinton Township, Sarah Mittanck of Washington D.C., and Amie Shay-Jacobs (Emile) of The Netherlands; four brothers, J. Case Shay of South Korea, Nathan Shay of Scottsdale, Ariz., Elliott Shay and Stephan Shay, both of Central Lake. Also surviving are his in-laws, Dave and Sally Craig of Gillette, Wyo.; sisters in-law, Lisa Renee (Doug) Tumminello, Karina (Jon) Fenderson; and many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his maternal and paternal grandparents and aunt.
A Celebration of Life will be held Sunday, Nov. 11, 2007, at 2 p.m., at the Harvest Barn Church in East Jordan. Pastors Kimon Criner and John Warren will officiate. The family will receive visitors on Friday, Nov. 9, from 5 until 8 p.m., and Saturday from noon until 8 p.m., at the Central Lake Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. Interment will take place at Dunsmore Cemetery in Echo Township. A dinner will follow at Central Lake High School.
Memorial contributions may be directed to the Ryan Shay Memorial Fund, 5873 Leisure Lane, East Jordan, Michigan 49727.
Please sign our online guest book at www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com.
This obituary was originally published in the Record-Eagle.
I lived in Central Lake until 2004 and watched Ryan running by my house for several years....I admired his stamina. My prayers are with all of the family.
Lois Godfrey
November 11, 2007 | Brooksville, FL
We are truly saddened by the loss of this fine, young athlete, son, brother, and husband. Our prayers are with you all for healing, and that all of your fond memories ease the pain.
Connie & Arlen Turner
November 10, 2007 | Elmira, MI
