Wayne Ryska

Wayne F. Ryska of Westfield, IN, passed away on July 24, 2025, at the age of 91. He was born in East Chicago, IN, on July 15, 1934, to parents, Frank and Helen (Greslo) Ryska.

Wayne graduated from Bishop Noll High school in Hammond, Indiana. He went on to further his education at Indiana State University - Teachers College and earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and education. In 1957 he was drafted into the army and spent two years serving his country. He returned home to continue his education at Indiana State University, completing a master’s degree in mathematics and school administration. His career began teaching math and coaching basketball at Thomas Edison Junior High school in East Gary, Indiana. He became principal of this school and went on to have the same role at Thomas Edison Senior High School. After relocating to DeMotte, Indiana, Wayne became Kankakee Valley Junior and Senior High School principal. He spent the remainder of his 38-year career in various roles at KV school corporation, retiring in 1996. His retirement years were spent reading, traveling, watching sports and spending time with his family.

Wayne was preceded in death by his wife of nearly 60 years of marriage, Rita Brownewell and two sisters Dorothy Ryska and Rita Wrona. He is survived by children, Lisa (Carey) Hamstra, Tom (Dawn) Ryska, Laura (Michael) Foster. Wayne was blessed with 8 grandchildren, Lindsay (Aaron), Brent (Jacki), Lauren (Todd), Carmyn, Charlotte, Lyla, Ryan and Tyler. In addition, he was a wonderful Great-Grandfather to Briggs, Brody, Caleb and Oliver.

A Celebration of Life will be held August 11th at 1:00 pm at Prairie Waters Funeral and Event Center, 4180 Westfield Road Westfield, Indiana 46062.