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Ryan Gilman Obituary
Ryan was born June 4, 1978, at Seton Hospital in Waterville to Larry and Gloria Gilman. He spent his childhood in Oakland and Sidney, growing up with friends Eric Lewis, Mike Spoylar, and Jamie Spear. He attended Messa-lonskee High School where he played varsity lacrosse all four years and earned the nickname "Gluestick" for his handling skills. He graduated in 1996 with best friends Matt Smith and Chris Otis.
Ryan loved working with children and was finishing the last semester of his bachelor's degree in education at the University of Maine at Fort Kent. Prior to his studies, he worked with troubled teens at Philip-Blanchett Youth Home for five years.
An avid outdoorsman, Ryan loved the great expanse of Aroostook County where he fished and hunted with family and friends. He was also a talented river rafting guide and worked a number of summers for Moxie Outdoor Adventures. He loved leading paddlers down the Kennebec River, especially family and friends on private trips. When not on the river or in the north Maine woods, he spent his time at his beloved family cabin on Moxie Pond with frequent visits to Moxie Falls. "Moxie Trips" held a special place in his heart.
Ryan loved music. He played the bass guitar and loved performing with band mates Jonathan Smith, Anthony Lamarr, Chad Cyr, Rob Roy, Jim Melvin, Steve Gabore, Kyle Taylor, and Patrick O'Leary.
He looked forward to this summer when he was to be a groomsman at his brother Greg's wedding.
Above all, Ryan was a proud and loving father and was always quick to share stories of his 2-year-old son, Ethan.
He will be deeply missed by his mother, Gloria Gilman; father Larry Gilman and his fiancée, Terry Hoag; brother Greg Gilman and his fiancée, Jaime Twitchell; sister Kristen Kimball her husband, Tucker Kimball, and their son, Harrison; sister Wendy Lewis; sister Laurie Tompkins and her fiancée Sheridan Doyle; son Ethan Ryan and his mother, Bradie Castonguay; nieces Tasia and Leisha Lewis; grandparents Margie and Elwin Thibault and many aunts, uncles, cousins and dear friends.
Ryan was predeceased by his grandparents, Lawrence and Mabel Gilman, and his uncle, James Gilman.
Visiting hours will be 3 to 5 p.m. Monday, April 14, at Wheeler Funeral Home in Oakland. A celebration of Ryan's life will follow at 5:30 p.m. at the Winslow Veterans of Foreign Wars.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Ethan Gilman Education Fund at P.O. Box 406, Bethel, ME 04217.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Ryan Gilman
March 30, 2010
March 30, 2010
Sera Roy
April 9, 2009
I have been traveling and I had no idea that Ryan passed untill now. Bummer. He was one of my best buds since he came here for his first year of college. We have shared many fun times and had a lot of cool memories together. Ryan will be GREATLY missed.
Chad Cyr
April 3, 2009
It's hard to believe almost a year has gone by since Ryan's passing. It seems like yesterday sitting on his couch having the same old nonsense conversations. Ryan's face, voice, laughs and cries are imprinted in my brain like a feshly inscribed tattoo and will continue to be forever. I, as well as many others love and miss you dearly Ryan. I'm sure some day you and I will reunite, and belive me the anger I once felt will be overwhelmed with joy to see you once again.
Peace and love to all of Ryan's family
Shanna Zerveskes (Harrison)
October 28, 2008
My prayers go out to Ryan's family and friends. Although I had not been in contact with him after my leaving UMFK Ryan was always in my thoughts. He was a wonderful person and taught me many things while we were friends. He was caring and always had a wide contageous smile to share. He made me love the outdoors and made college fun. He was patient with me and was like a brother to me. I have wonderful memories that will be with me forever and he was truely a gift from God.
Tasia Lewis ~TAY~
September 28, 2008
Looking at all the entries i have finally been able to sit down and read all of them. It moves me at how much he was loved by everybody and I'm glad all the memories were shared. I miss him so much. It's never going to be the same without him here but he WILL and HAS shined through Ethan. See you on the flip side Uncle Ry!!! I Love You!!
April 30, 2008
April 30, 2008
April 30, 2008
Judy (Conroy) Dussault
April 27, 2008
Larry,
I am so sorry to hear about your loss. I wish there was more I could say. My prayers are with you and your family.
My Love
Judy
this was his favorite picture of us together - fishing at his dad's
Andrea Thomas
April 27, 2008
I will love and miss him forever. We lost a very special person that day and your family will always be in my heart. thank you for all of your support - i love you all
XOXOXOXOXO (those are for you Ryan)
Bradie Castonguay
April 27, 2008
I am lost without you.
Gisele Veilleux
April 26, 2008
I would like to express my deepest sympathy to Ryan's family and friends. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Paul Durocher
April 26, 2008
Wow. I am so saddened and surprised by this loss. I loved Ryan and considered him one of my very best friends. I only wish I could have been there more for him in the last couple of years. Our family's prayers are with his family and, mostly, his son Ethan in this hard time. Goodbye brother Chavez.
Linda Rood
April 24, 2008
Sorry to hear of your loss. Our thought are with you. Bill +Linda Rood
Jennie Muniz
April 24, 2008
My thoughts and prayers go to Greg and his family during this time.
Ashley Morissette
April 24, 2008
The Gilman Family, I spent many years of my life living next door on the lake to all of you. Although I didn't know Ryan all that well i've had the expierence of getting to be so close with Larry, and spending some time with the family. Larry, Greg, Kristen, Laurie, Wendy and Terry my dad, Ann and I think so much of all of you, and are hear if you need anything in this hard time.
Brooks Swett
April 23, 2008
Knowing Ryan from a distance in High School I will always remember his smile and kind words. Sorry for your loss I will keep all in my prayers.
Amy (Ayotte) Fougere
April 22, 2008
To the Gilman family, I am so deeply sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers at this time.
Lisa Hachey
April 22, 2008
Our world, and especially our family, will never be the same without Ryan. He touched so many of us in so many ways that I know each of us will always carry a special place for him in our hearts. His impact, his spirit, and his love will never be forgotten, only treasured. We'll miss him. Aunt Lisa
Cherri Elliott
April 21, 2008
Gloria
I am so sorry to hear about Ryan. My thoughts and prayers are with you and yours through this difficult time.
Nancy Vallée
April 20, 2008
Ryan's lost took me in a deep sorrow... The lost of a son is the biggest suffering that a human being has to live. My thoughts and prayers are with you, Larry and Gloria. I'm also thinking of you Greg, Kristen, Laurie and Wendy, who have to live powerless a brother's lost. Receive sincerly, my deepest sympathies. As for me, I'll keep forever in my heart the bursts of laughter and complicities shared during the summers that we spent together. I'm one of the privileged who's heart has been touched by Ryan's goodness. I'll never forget about him. Despite the distance and time, you'll always be my second family!
I love you and send you kisses and hugs from Québec.
Von Taggart
April 19, 2008
Ryan was a great guy to know as a friend and was respected by me and his many friends that he had. I knew him when I was going through college at UMFK. I was very saddened by what had happened and I just want to say that my prayers are with him and his family.
Amy Kakuk
April 17, 2008
Words cannot express the pain that all of those who had the chance to share a part of their life with Ryan Gilman are experiencing. He has definatley made a huge impact on many peoples lives and will be missed greatly. My deepest sympathies to all those whos heart Ryan has touched.
Travis LaJoy
April 17, 2008
I am one of the fortunate people to have had the opportunity to spend much of my childhood with Ryan and the wonderful Gilman family. For many years Ryan was like my younger brother, and we all spent many fond and unforgettable moments together.
I am celebrating Ryan's life and mourning his passing.
My deepest sympathy and love to the Gilman family.
Shellie Provandie
April 17, 2008
To the Gilman Family.
I'm so sorry for your loss, Ryan was a good man, and will be missed by many..
Jody Pierce
April 16, 2008
I only met Ryan one time, and it was only just this past winter. With as many stories as I've heard about him, though, he did not feel like a stranger to me. All I really need to know is that he was a Gilman, so he had a big heart, a wonderful sense of humor, and that he was loved by many. I am so sorry for your loss.
Hope Cruser
April 16, 2008
What can I even say? I am so heart broken at the loss of Ryan and reading about others that loved him and were touched by knowing him, here means so much. I was blessed to be his friend in Fort Kent, and he gave me some of the best memories of my life in such a short time. He "guided" me and my city boyfriend all over Allagash, showing us all the animals and birds, he played music, being with him made otherwise tough times amazing ones. Then he introduced me to the man that is still my current boyfriend, and who was one of Gilman's college roomates. He will always be so present in our lives. Never really gone. How could he ever be when so very many of our great memories involve his incredible spirit? I will always remember him best from the perspective of the backseat of his truck, while driving on the Golden Road back to Fort Kent from the Forks, listening to Cake on a gorgeous summer day -him in the front, turning to smile back at us.
Nancy Boivin
April 16, 2008
Larry, Gloria, Greg, Kristin, Laurie and Wendy,
I too remember Ryan most when he was a baby, but I will never forget that when I came to see A. Mabel when she was in her last days, he hugged me as if he had seen me the day before. He was such a gentle man and will be so missed. I send my love to you all. Nancy (Naneets)
LYNNE ALEXANDER
April 15, 2008
LAURIE... THANKS FOR SHARING ALTHOUGH I NEVER MET RYAN THESE MEMORIES OF FRIENDS AND RELATIVES GIVE ME A CLUE TO THAT SPECIAL PERSON THAT WAS YOUR LITTLE BROTHER. I KNOW THE DAY WILL COME WHEN YOU WILL BE TOGETHER AGAIN; BLESS YOU
Mike Fulling
April 15, 2008
The Gilman Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of sorrow. I was fortunate to know Ryan throughout high school and beyond. We shared drama class together, making funny little short films, and had many other great times. Ryan was always fun to be around and you could count on him to make you laugh. Deepest Sympathy, Mike, Dominique, and Monique Fulling
Nate Pierce
April 15, 2008
It's hard to know what to say. I've known Ryan since he was 4, and even though I hadn't seen as much of him since he moved North, every time I did see him it was like not a day had passed. He was always the same Ryan and I always enjoyed hanging out with him. Still, I'll remember him most as a little boy because that's when I knew him best. He was an imp! Ryan, I'm not that religious, but I certainly hope there's a heaven, and if there is I know I'll see you there. Greg, Kris, and the rest of the family... you know if there is anything at all we can do to help you through this, Jody and I will be there in a second.
Leah Marin
April 15, 2008
Its like a really foggy night lately. You can't see the road very clearly ahead of you but you can see right in front of you so you follow that. I don't know what the future will be like now... no one ever really does. What I do know is that there will not be a day that the memory and the love that each person had for Ryan will not be forgotten. I just hope that Ryan was standing at the pearly gates with all his friends, family, and great idols of the musical world that passed away. I hope he was watching those who came to his wake, mourning and yet rejoicing his life and memories he created for all of us. We all loved him so much. I will never forget the times we spent together just talking about anything we could think of. He was always there for me and always will be in my heart. My prayers go to everyone who loved him and especially to his son. I just hope everyone in ethans life who knew gilman can tell him what a great man he was. Im sure he already knows in his heart. Through thick and thin I do Love you gilman i hope you knew that.
terry hoag
April 15, 2008
the first time i met ryan, larry and i were coming in on the wave runners and i missed the dock. ryan was there down on his knees with his hand extended to help me. that is how i will always remember him, with his hand out ready to help anyone in need. i'll miss you ryan. i know that you are at peace and i know that your family will find peace in remembering you as a caring ,loving person.
terry
Laurie Gilman-Tompkins
April 15, 2008
Thank you so much for the love and support everyone has given our family through this tragic time. I will miss my little brother so much, but he will live on through so many of our memories and yours.
Nate Atkins
April 14, 2008
I will never forget the great times with Ryan growing up. Out on the lake on the jet ski, camping on the island, cannon-balling off the party boat, going to Ward Pond on the 4-wheelers, and especially the dozens of trips up to Moxie. I think I’ve laughed as much with him as with anyone else in the world, and I cherish those memories more than ever right now. I know that he had the same impact on everyone who was lucky enough to know him and spend time with him. I’ll miss him deeply, and he’ll always have a place in my heart.
David Ditson
April 14, 2008
You were a great person , that cared about your friends so much. I am really going to miss you alot. I wish that we could have spent more time together by going fishing. RIP David
Sarah (Wood) & Jeffrey St. Pierre
April 14, 2008
Gilman Family,
Our deepest condolences and thoughts are with you all during this time. Know that our prayers and blessings are with you.
Gloria Thibault
April 14, 2008
Aunt Gloria and Uncle Larry,
I am so sorry for your loss, Ryan was such a wonderful person. My best memory with Ryan is when he guided us down the rapids so many years ago. He made me realize how much I loved being outdoors and rafting. I have rafted many times since and always think of him. I love you both so much. I can not imagine how much you both must be hurting. I am sorry I can not be with you, but I just could not make it happen. I want you to know I am thinking of you and I am so sorry. Please let me know if I can do anything for you. I love you.
Jess (Pawlick) Soucy
April 14, 2008
I have wonderful memories of Ryan growing up. He was a great guy, and will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Desiree Champagne
April 14, 2008
To Ryan's loving family,
There was a time when I was lucky enough to spend almost everyday with Ryan during and after work. He was a person who genuinally cared what you thought and had to say, he worried about your happiness and comfort and he lived everyday to its fullest. Ryan was a person that touched me and many others and so many ways. He was a very important to me, the last time I saw him we reminised and I recieved a big hug and kiss. He is loved.
Brandy & Garrett Glashin
April 14, 2008
Larry, Terry and Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you as you begin your journey of rememberence.
Katte Mathias
April 14, 2008
My deepest and dearest sympathy to the whole family- my thoughts are prayers are with you.
Dee
April 14, 2008
Gloria, I am thinking of you everyday. Sending you hugs and strength to get you through this difficult time. I miss your laugh.
Clifford Stevens
April 14, 2008
Ryan was a character. In the time I have known him he always had a smile on his face and a good word. As a professional Maine Whitewater Rafting Guide, he loved to share his love for the rivers and wilderness of Maine with his friends and guests. Anyone who went down the river with Ryan came back with a smile and a new found appreciation of the surroundings and the folks they were with. Ryan was always a person willing to lend a hand. He was an open and caring person. I will miss seeing him around Moxie Pond and the river! My thoughts go out to your family for their loss. Both sides ahead Ryan. You will be missed.
Clifford Stevens
April 14, 2008
Ryan was a character. In the time I have known him he always had a smile on his face and a good word. As a professional Maine Whitewater Rafting Guide, he loved to share his love for the rivers and wilderness of Maine with his friends and guests. Anyone who went down the river with Ryan came back with a smile and a new found appreciation of the surroundings and the folks they were with. Ryan was always a person willing to lend a hand. He was an open and caring person. I will miss seeing him around Moxie Pond and the river! My thoughts go out to your family for their loss. Both sides ahead Ryan. You will be missed.
Blair and Stacey Doucette
April 14, 2008
We will all sadly miss Ryan. He always made us laugh at the times we needed it. My heart goes out to his family during this difficult time. Just know that your angel is looking over you know.
Betty & Robert Bartlett, Oakland & Marlene Grenier, Albion
April 14, 2008
Dear Laurie and family,
Our deepest condolences to you and your family for the loss of your brother, Ryan. During this time of grief and sorrow, please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. May you find comfort in the wonderful memories of Ryan, your loving family, and from the warm embrace of friends and neighbors. With our deepest sympathy,
Toby and Melissa Leighton
April 14, 2008
To all that love Ryan so very much,
There are no words that can express the sadness that we all feel at a time like this. Just know that our heart breaks for you and you are all in our thoughts constantly. We are so very sorry for your loss.
Danielle & Matt Marquis
April 14, 2008
We are thinking of all of you during this difficult time. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Tina Martin
April 14, 2008
To the Gilman Family:
I just wanted to extend to you my deepest sympathies on Ryan's passing. I went to UMFK with Ryan and I'll always remember his smile and the way he was always kidding around. Just know that you'll always have a guardian angel looking down on you.
Joseph Gildred
April 14, 2008
I received an email from my brother this morning informing me of Ryan's passing. My deepest sympathies to all of Ryan's family. I'm so sorry. While I haven't seen Ryan in a very, very long time, he was of such a character that my memories of him are - and shall always be - vibrant, flowing and alive.
Su-Ying (Leung) & Mike Chavez
April 14, 2008
Ryan was a wonderful person. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family in your time of loss.
David Marquis
April 14, 2008
Over the last years i've known Ryan, he became one of my best and closest friends. Whether we were jamming, out on soldier pond in his boat, or just riding around looking for birds or deer, every moment I spent with you was a treasured one. I'll never forget you brother, your passing has had a deep impact on us all. I hope you have found peace my friend.
Ruth Zimba
April 14, 2008
I am so sorry to hear of your most tragic loss. My heart goes out to your entire family. My sincere condolences.
Ruth Zimba
Matt Hannam
April 14, 2008
Dear Gilman Family,
I am so sorry to learn of Ryan's passing. Although it has been a long time since I have seen Ryan please know that I always cherrished the times that we spent together when we were room mates at UMFK during his freshman year. Ryan was by far one of the kindest people that I have ever known and he was a friend to not just me but everyone whom he encountered - all people liked him the first time they met him. Ryan, from one June 4th Gemini to another - I will never forget you and will always regret losing touch with you over the years.
Respectfully,
Matt Hannam
David Melvin
April 14, 2008
To the Gilman family I leave my thoughts and prayers. I am truly sorry for your loss. Ryan will be missed by all.
Diane Engler
April 14, 2008
May the loving presence, words and actions of family and friends help each of you through the hours of these days and all the days that are ahead. Your special, unique memories of Ryan will be a source of strength for you, even through these difficult times.
Lee Bossie & Family
April 14, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort. Losing someone so special at such a young age is not something we are prepared for, nor something that we are able to get used to. From experience, the days will be hard but his memories will keep you going each and everyday. Do what he would want and live each day to the fullest. Laugh at the great times and don't be afraid to cry...it will get easier if you let it out. Many people will be there to help you through it and allow them to. My deepest sympathies to your family.
Beth (Henderson) & Keith Emery
April 14, 2008
To Larry, Terry & family,
You are in our thoughts and prayers, our deepest symapthy and wishes for strength and healing in this time.
Holly Duguay
April 14, 2008
To a family that has always meant so much to me ~ my heart goes out to all of you. Sending many hugs. Treasure the memories of Ryan. He will always be with you. . .
Sara Barron-Nichols
April 14, 2008
I always picture Ryan laughing... he had such a fantastic smile. I am so sorry. All of you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Linda White
April 14, 2008
Gloria and family: I'm so sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Carmen & Aariana Kalinoski & Maldonado
April 14, 2008
My condolences to Ryan's family. My daughter and I Carmen send all our love.
xoxo
Nick Marquis
April 14, 2008
Ryan was such a good friend to me that he made my time in Fort Kent a time filled with many great memories. And although he was not a musician when I knew him, I was proud and amazed at how talented and proficient he became in so short a time. I will never forget him. My heart goes out to his family, especially Ethan.
Christina Ditson
April 13, 2008
"Gilman" was a very charamatic young man, as I was always drawn to his great sense of humor and bountiful talents. He was a generous soul and loved to help others. I will never forget the memories I have shared with him. May he RIP. My heart goes out to his family and friends. God bless.
Jeff Spolyar
April 13, 2008
Dear Gloria, Larry, Greg, & Kristen,
My heart is broken for you. I will always remember Ryan as that kid who always had a smile on face. Jenn & I have you in our thoughts & prayers.
Jennifer Sabattis
April 13, 2008
Oh Gloria,
I am so, so sorry to hear of Ryan's passing. My heart goes out to you in this sad time. I have been thinking of you lately and all the good times we shared. My prayers are with you.
Tony, Kelly & Kristafer Couture
April 13, 2008
Gloria, Larry and Family, Our hearts break for the loss of Ryan. We are praying for you that God will comfort you.
Linda George
April 13, 2008
Gloria,
My condolences and heart-felt sympathy are with you at this very difficult time. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Jessica Landberg
April 13, 2008
My heart goes out to Ryan's family. I knew Ryan throughout grade school and high school. Although it's been several years since I've seen Ryan it seems like yesterday he was jumping into his truck to head up to Moxie. Ryan had a way about him that was genuine and comforting to those around him. He will be greatly missed. I'm deeply sorry for your loss.
Nicole Michaud
April 13, 2008
Aunt Gloria, Uncle Larry, Kris, Greg, and family,
I just wanted to let you know that I am thinking about you and praying for you all. Ryan was a great cousin and he'll be greatly missed. I still can remeber back when we were kids and I would come to Oakland and Sidney with mom and go in the indoor pool, play games, or go on the party boat. All of you will be in my heart throughout this rough time and afterwards. Love, Nick
Julie Keen
April 13, 2008
My heart goes out to you and your family, Gloria. I am thinking about you every day. You are such a wonderful person. I miss you very much and I am so sorry for your loss. Much love, Julie Keen
Michael Cianchette
April 13, 2008
Ryan will be deeply missed by all who knew him. He had a smile and a laugh that made everyone around him feel good. We had a lot of great times up in Fort Kent. It's been 2 years since I last saw Ryan and I will always regret that
Sharon Lambert
April 12, 2008
Gloria, Larry, Terry, Wendy, Laurie: We were deeply saddened to hear the news of Ryan's passing. What a sweet little boy and charming young man. My parents loved him dearly. With love and deepest sympathy, Sharon, Mike, Nicole, Kyle Lambert
Suzanne & Paul Lavoie
April 12, 2008
Gloria,
You have our deepest sympathy,for your loss. You are a very very dear friend and wish I could be there to help comfort you. The red rose in the dish garden represents the love between you and Ryan. See you soon. Our Love & Prayers are with you.
angie burton
April 12, 2008
Many of my greatest memories include Ryan ~ this I would never have expected! I would be there in a second if I could.... He brough so much joy to so many people. I wish his family the best through this time.
Kristen (Gilman) Kimball
April 12, 2008
There is no possible way to describe the heartfelt appreciation we feel for the amazing love and support that has surrounded us these past few days. There is no way any of us could get through this without all of you. On behalf of my family, thank you, thank you, thank you.
Jen (Leclair) Dorr
April 12, 2008
My deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Ryan. Ryan was a great guy.. we enjoyed some nice fishing adventures when we were kids. May everyone find the strength and peace to get through this hard time.
Greg Gilman
April 12, 2008
Thank you everyone for all of your comments. If anyone would like to contact the family, feel free to send me an email.
Thanks again.
Becky Blakely (Higgins)
April 12, 2008
I am so sorry to hear about Ryan. I remember playing at baseball games with him and Kristen when we were kids. In my mind, he is still that little boy. I am so sorry for the loss.
Dawn & Jerry Haralson
April 12, 2008
Ryan brought happiness to all those around him...I only have great memories, our thoughts and prayers are with you as you endure these trying times.
Colby Martin
April 12, 2008
Ryan was a neighbor, just one door down when we lived at B+M apartments, and a friend of mine at UMFK. Although we lost touch several years ago I still have many great memories of Gilman. The first motorcycle I even drove was his (although he didn't know that at the time.) Many hours were spent just hanging out at his place. Jokes told, movies watched and music listened to. Ryan was always such an easy-going kind guy. You will be missed.
To the Gilman family and all of Ryans friends. Please know you are all in my thoughts and my prayers in this very difficult time.
Julie Veilleux
April 12, 2008
Ryan is in all of my Jr. High and High school memories. He made that time in my life very special. I will miss him.
Bruce Thibeault
April 12, 2008
Gloria and family,
Sorry for the loss of your son. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Love, (cousin) Bruce and Bette
Steve Gabor
April 12, 2008
Ryan, I was looking forward to you moving downstate and jamming the tunes again. Playing with you and Chad in, “almost out” for about a year in soldier pond and hanging out were some of the best and most fun/crazy times I’ve ever had. Like the time we played our only gig ever on new years eve and drove to Ashland in the middle of a blizzard. It kept me sane and thanks so much for that. Your one of the nicest, most generous people I’ve ever met and everyone, who knew you, surely agrees because you were real and genuine. I’ll always miss you immensely whenever I think of you, and I will never forget you. I’ll never forget all the good talks we had and movies we watched. All the times chillin outside with REBA by your side. You were a true talent when it came to music and had a one of a kind personality/charisma when it came to people. I’m deeply shocked, saddened, and frustrated that I will never get to see you gain. In this time of grieving for all of us my thoughts are with the family and friends of Ryan Elwin Gilman.
Vicky Andrews
April 12, 2008
Gloria and family - Words can't express the sorrow we feel for you or for the pain you are feeling. Our hearts go out to you. Sending big hugs. Love, (Cousin) Vicky and Tom
Joe Jewell
April 12, 2008
No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. My deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.
Justin Brown
April 12, 2008
I will always remember Ryan's gentle and joyous spirit. He had a level of charisma that is not common in this world. Losing touch with him a few years after we graduated high school is something that I will always regret. I offer my deepest sympathies to his family. I hope you can take some small comfort in knowing that his memory will live on in any that were fortunate enough to get to know him.
Cathy seluke
April 12, 2008
I'm so sorry for your loss. Ryan was so great; I remember him best as a little boy. My mother loved him so much for his sweet nature and his endearing little hoarse voice. He had grown into such a fine young man. I can't imagine the depth of your loss. Please accept my condolences and prayers. Love to all of you from your cousin Cathy
Jeanie (Olmstead) Michaud
April 12, 2008
Larry,
I wish to express my sympathy for the loss of your precious son. I know exactly what you are going through. Joyful memories will help fill the void in your heart and eventually you will smile again when you think of Ryan. My prayers are with you and your family.
Bob & Anne Smith
April 12, 2008
Dear Larry & Terry
Thinking of you and praying for
you in the loss of Ryan. We are
so deeply sorry. Words cannot
express the sorrow we feel for you.
Kelly Pinney
April 12, 2008
To the Gilman Family,
My thoughts are with you during this sad time.
HENRY & WILMA POULIOT
April 12, 2008
DEAR LARRY
HENRY AND I SEND OUR DEEPRST SYMPATHY TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY AT THE SAD TIME.
Lori Levesque
April 12, 2008
Mrs. Gloria Gilman, Mr. Larry Gilman, and Family,
Please accept my deeply felt sympathy for I know Ryan's loss is a great one. To know Ryan was to love him because he gave so much of himself to all around him. I witnessed this first hand when he worked as a substitute teacher aide in my special education classroom. He had such a caring and gentle nature that I often kiddingly referred to him as "Our Grampy." He had a true gift in his approach with children and will be dearly missed.
Jodi & Rick James
April 12, 2008
I'm grateful for the last memories I have of Ryan; that constant smile and those entertaining stories, happily playing my request in front of a captured audience, that chance to reconnect. We're all missing everything he added to our lives.
tracy (daigle) fleischer
April 12, 2008
to ryans family,
i was saddened to hear of the sudden death of such an outgoing individual. although i did not know him very well, people who knew him always shared a good story and never a bad moment. my thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time.
Jim Melvin
April 12, 2008
Goodbye my friend, my condolences to all of the others you leave behind.
Heidi Bradford (Collier)
April 12, 2008
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
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How to support Ryan's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
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Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
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What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
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Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
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The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Ryan Gilman's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
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Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
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How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
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