Bradley Ray VanRyswyk

Bradley Ray VanRyswyk, 72, passed away peacefully on October 22, 2025 surrounded by his loving family. A funeral service will be held at 10:30am on Tuesday, October 28 at the Bayview/Freeborn Funeral Home in Albert Lea, MN. A visitation will be held from 5-7pm on Monday, October 27, 2025 along with an hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Pastor Wendy Browne will be officiating.

Brad was born on September 28, 1953 to Ray and Lorraine VanRyswyk. He grew up with a strong work ethic, a kind heart, and unwavering family values that guided him throughout his life.

48 years ago, on October 15, 1977, he married the love of his life Susan. Together, they built a beautiful life rooted in love, laughter, and family…with of course the ongoing struggle to determine who was the boss. Brad was a devoted husband, proud father of two wonderful children, and an adoring Grandpa. His greatest joys were spending time with those he loved, being in nature, hunting, fishing, and his birds.

Brad will be remembered for his quick wit, his generous spirit, and ability to make everyone feel loved and welcomed. Whether he was sharing a story, lending a helping hand or cheering on his grandkids, he lived his life with love, warmth, and integrity.

We will continue to celebrate his life when family and friends gather to share memories and honor the wonderful man he was. Brad’s legacy of love, laughter and kindness will continue to live on in all who have known him.

He was preceded in death by his parents Ray and Lorraine VanRyswyk; mother-in-law Barbara Hanson; and father-in-law Clayton Thompson.

He is survived by his wife Susan; his son Grant (Amber) and daughter Amanda (Matt). His brothers Greg (Cindy) VanRyswyk and John VanRyswyk; and his sister Roxanne VanRyswyk. Grandchildren Athena, Aurora, Gavin, Isaiah, Mason, Jacob, and Evan who had brought so much light into his life. Nephews Brody VanRyswyk and Brice Griener; nieces Krystal (Bryan) Gravelle, Kimberly (Jake) Sullivan, and Courtney (Matt) Vogel. His father-in-law Willis Hanson; brother-in-law Ken (Lori) Thompson, and sister-in-law Christine (Tom) Campbell. And also our little special pet Lucy, who adored him.

Goodbye, for now. Heaven has called upon you today, leaving so many words left to say. But we will cherish and keep you close in our memories.