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Ryan Burgess Obituary
Ryan John Burgess was born April 26th, 1985 in Midland. He was the son of Jon D. and Kim Burgess. He lived his childhood in Sanford and attended Meridian Public Schools, graduating in 2003. After graduation, Ryan attended one year of college before deciding he needed to serve his country, joining the United States Marine Corps. He planned on finishing his college degree upon his completion in the Marine Corps and was already making plans to re-enroll.
Ryan believed everyone should be grateful for our freedom and brave enough to earn that freedom. He was serving his second tour in Iraq when he was killed by an Improvised Explosion Device. While in the Marine Corps, Ryan was a vehicle commander and squad leader, taking great pride in the responsibility the Marine Corps bestowed upon him. His marksmanship skills during boot camp earned him the Expert Rifle Marksmanship Badge. These skills were called upon during his tours in Iraq, as he often served as a sniper.
Ryan is survived by his parents, Jon D. and Kim Burgess, his sister Lindsey (Jeff) Burgess-Stopka, and a brother, Ryan "Motch" (Elizabeth) Maciejewski. He is also survived by his girlfriend Emily Wright. They had made plans to spend the rest of their lives together once he left the Marine Corps. He is survived by his grandmothers Jessie Burgess and Delores Spitler, and his grandfather Robert Spitler, Sr., an Army veteran. He is also survived by his aunts and uncles; Robert "Bob" and Diane Spitler and their children (Shawna, Heather and Jordan Spitler), Jim and Pam Burgess and their children (Jodi (Chris) German and Eric Burgess), Dan and Becky Fetters, Tim Burgess, and many dear friends. He was preceded in death by his grandfather John "Jack" Arthur Burgess, a decorated WWII veteran himself, and an uncle Robert "Bobby" Burgess who passed away as a young child.
Ryan will be deeply missed by everyone. He touched all of us in so many ways. He loved life, his family, his girlfriend and adventure. Some of those adventures included rock climbing, kayaking, riding his quad, camping, traveling and spending time with his friends. Ryan will always be our hero.
Funeral services will take place Tuesday at the Midland Evangelical Free Church, 7221 Jefferson Ave. Chaplain Roger Stauffer and Pastor Gib Giblin will officiate with full military honors to be presented by the United States Marine Corps. Please note: corrected funeral time is 11 a.m.
Ryan's family will receive friends at the Ware-Smith-Woolever Funeral Home, 1200 W. Wheeler St. on Sunday from 1 to 6 p.m., Monday 1 to 6 p.m., and at the church on Tuesday from 10 a.m. until time of services.
Memorials may be offered to the family in memory of Ryan. These funds will be used to aid injured Marines. If you are unable to visit with the family in person you may send your condolences through www.waresmithwoolever.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Ryan Burgess
Francisco J. Vasquez
July 12, 2020
Today, July 12, 2020, I found at the March Field Air Museum in Riverside CA a memorial rock hidden in the "Flying Cross Memorial." His KIA status was inscribed and a link to contact Kim on FB. May God grant the family peace of mind and joy in the memory of him. Serper Fi LCpl Ryan Burgess fir your duty, honor, and sacrifice will nit be forgotten. In Jesus name! Amen.
Jim Venable
December 21, 2014
Dear Burgess family,
I sign this register in honor of Ryan, and to let you know that some of us never forget, and are truly grateful to those who have served and their families.
yamil perez
July 4, 2014
I was travelling through the interstate today July 4th and couldn't help feel deeply affected by the way you honor the memory of your son with precious words written on your campervan. I need to express my sincere gratitude and reassurance that your son's sacrifice will never be forgotten. Ryan John is a true hero.
AJ
November 29, 2013
We won't forget!
Charlie Gili
April 13, 2013
Hello,
We would like to express our deepest condolences and also let the Burgess Family know that we recently sent Care Packages to American troops in the war zones. Each box carried a dedication sheet that includes the name, service information and a photo of your loved one. We recognize that this is a humble tribute, but we wanted you to know that it is heartfelt and made possible by thousands of like-minded individuals in the youth hockey community and beyond. We will not forget. May God Bless you and keep you strong.
Sincerely,
Charlie Gili & Family
On Behalf of the US Hockey Players Support Our Troops Campaign
Amy McCullough
November 11, 2012
My husband and I own and operate a small bar and grill in Richmond, KY. My husband is a former Marine and yesterday we hosted a Veterans Day event to raise money for KY Wounded Warriors. On her way to the event my best friend got behind a vehicle from Michigan that had a special message about a lost son and hero printed on it. She arrived at our event told us about Ryan Burgess who was killed in action on 12-21-06. She said the message had brought her to tears, and he was in our thoughts all day. Whenever there was a toast throughout the day it was made in honor of Ryan Burgess. It was as if it was meant for my friend to get behind that car and bring the message of this fallen hero to our gathering where he could be honored. We never met him. We didn't know his story but yesterday he was with us in spirit. We salute you Ryan Burgess. Thank you for your service and sacrifice.
Peggy Childers
December 22, 2011
To the family and friends of Lance Cpl. Ryan J. Burgess:
Please accept my remembrance of Ryan on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.
Edinmel (Doc Cruz) Balterocruz
February 2, 2011
I miss you man, I still think about you and the rest of the crew to this day. i will never forget what we've been through and I'm sorry that I couldn't do anything. You will always be in our hearts.
Peggy Childers
December 21, 2010
To the family and friends of Lance Cpl. Ryan J. Burgess:
Remembering Ryan on the anniversary of his passing. May our fallen heroes never be forgotten!
Peggy Childers
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
December 20, 2010
Your sacrifice will not be forgotten. You are remembered my brother. A Viet Nam vet.
lexy
February 15, 2010
im proud of ryan and i wish i could thank him. THANK YOU!!
Madi
February 15, 2010
I am proud of what Ryan did for the world. I hope I could tell him "Thank you for your hard work." He is a herp to me.
Donna Gillette
December 24, 2009
On this day and with each day that we enjoy our freedom, I would like to give thanks and let you know that I do not take our troops for granted. May you experience God when you feel your loss.
john dearing
December 22, 2009
ryan i am proud of all our heroes. you guys paid the ultimate sacrifice and we are truely in your debt forever.you are up in heaven with my son pfc john w dearing .may god bless you all.
Sarah Prill
December 21, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with the Burgess family today. I can't imagine the pain you have gone through but you have many supporters that will be there for you.
Lance CPL. Burgess you gave the ultimate sacrifice for your country. That will NEVER be forgotten.
December 21, 2009
Rest in Peace, you will always be remembered as the hero you are.
Mike Welch
December 21, 2009
My Prayers and Thoughts are with the Burgess Family and Friends on this Day.
L/Cpl Burgess, I WILL not forget your Sacrifice
Marine Mike
Patriot Guard
Kelly Dale
May 12, 2009
Wow i can't believe u are gone i cry about u when i think about you and can't stop thinkin of the day i got the phone call that day changed my whole life. Thank you for everything that you did for me when i needed you. You were always there for me for with your shoulder for me to cry on. WEll ihope that you are in a better place and i can't wait to see you
i love you forever and always....
Kelly
Kenna Larra
February 23, 2009
We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families. War does not discriminate – It breaks my heart to see the faces of the fallen. We want to give this gift to you. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization! Over 1,500 portraits have been completed and shipped to the parents and or spouse - at no cost as this is a gift from one American to another!
Contact us directly at [email protected] or go to www.heropaintings.com. If you have already had a portrait completed, we pray that you are enjoying the portrait and God Bless You.
Sincerely,
Kenna
Madison
January 1, 2009
Dear Ryan,
I do not know you a whole lot but I have heard many great things about you through your cousin Jordan. Through what Jordan has said about you and what you did for our country you sound like a pretty good guy.
Sincerely Jordans Friend,
Madison
In Memory of Ryan ~ (Debra Estep)
December 28, 2008
Holding you all in my thoughts and prayers.
The Wind on The Downs
“I like to think of you as brown and tall,
As strong and living as you used to be,
In khaki tunic, Sam Brown belt and all,
And standing there and laughing down at me.
Because they tell me, dear, that you are dead,
Because I can no longer see your face,
You have not died, it is not true, instead
You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe;
I hear you laughing as you used to do,
Yet loving all the things I think of you;
And knowing you are happy, should I grieve?
You follow and are watchful where I go.”
(Written by Marian Allen during World War l )
Two lines that I wish you to keep near your heart…….
“You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe”
I did not know Ryan, but I am remembering
his service and sacrifice. He is my hero. !
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
The Other Side
i'm over on the other side
where life and death softly divide.
left my skin and bones behind
now i'm over on the other side.
can you feel me there with you?
my breath is gone but i'm not through.
loved you then and i still do
from over on the other side.
i can fly. really fly.
below the earth ... all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.
it's good here on the other side.
the sweetest songs...the bluest skies.
thank you for the tears you cried
but it's good here on the other side.
i can fly. really fly. below the earth...all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side
the world is smaller than a needle's eye.
where life and death softly divide.
when you leave your skin and bones behind
i'll be waiting on the other side.
i can fly. really fly. below the earth ... all through the sky.
go tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.
Song lyrics by Don Conoscenti
C Desert Muse/SESAC
www.donconoscenti.com
(Used with permission)
“I hope it brings great comfort to any and all.
Peace on you. DonCon” 4-2008
The Other Side –
(To hear the song)
http://tinyurl.com/3o8gol
Sincerely,
Deb Estep ~ Ohio
Proud Air Force Mom SSgt Vince – Lackland AFB
Proud Air Force MIL SrA Dana – Randolph AFB
Remembering The Fallen – Blog
http://tinyurl.com/3z8p55
Angel and soldier drawing I have shared here.
http://tinyurl.com/6gey8b
Rest In Peace
Michael Iezzi
December 22, 2008
Ryan,
Thinking and praying for you on the 2nd anniversary of your passing into eternal glory. May God hold you in the palm of His hand. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
"Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends", John 15:13.
Peggy Childers
December 21, 2008
To the family of Lance Cpl. Ryan J. Burgess:
Ryan gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our fallen heroes be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
Brody Burmaster
November 20, 2008
Ryan, I cant believe its been almost 2 years. I will never forget that day, I just want you to know that even though we had our differences sometimes, I will always think of you as a brother. We went through things that no one but us and the rest of the crew will ever understand. Ill keep going because you gave it all. I love you and miss you. Semper FI
Shawn Didde
October 17, 2008
Hey brother, another night where I just cant get you off my mind. I miss you alot, I think about you everyday and I hope to see you one day soon. I talk to your mom and dad alot, Keep watching over all of us. Semper Fi
Rene Rangel Jr
September 25, 2008
Burgers,
Got to hang out with the parents this weekend in DC, in your memory... all the usual suspect me, pete, pak.
Lindsey Cozat
September 23, 2008
Hey Ry,
Just stopping by to see your face. I have been thinking a lot about you lately. I moved to North Carolina, and everytime I leave my family I cry, and cry. My Mom always whispers in my ear, "Think about Ryan, Lindsey, Kim, and John. Ryan is always with you." It makes me so sad, but I know it is true. You are in my thoughts and prayers everyday! People down here are hearing about you, I think hero braclets are new in the south. People always stop me and ask about my braclet, so I pass on your story. I know that it touches strangers, just as much as it touches all of us. I know that you will always live on in my heart, and other people's hearts as long as we pass on your story. It's the least I can do for you... I should be home in a couple of weeks, I will try my hardest to stop by and see you.
All of my love,
Lindsey
June 16, 2008
You are remembered and respected. Thank you Lance Cpl Burgess!
Michael Iezzi
April 26, 2008
Ryan,
Happy Birthday in Heaven. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
A loved one lives forever in the hearts of those who cared.
A loved one lives forever in the memories that were shared.
Shawn Hess
January 6, 2008
My heart go's out to your family. I wish them well. As for you brother in arms thanks for all you have done.
Mark, Kris, Jesse, Anna Hoss
December 21, 2007
Ryan, we all miss you very much and you are in our prayers. Anna listens to the song "I Can Only Imagine" alot and we all take time to remember you then and always. We love you and miss you!! Especially Jesse!!
Rest In Peace
Michael iezzi
December 21, 2007
Thinking and praying for you on the 1st anniversary of your passing into eternal glory. May God hold you in the palm of His hand. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
August 4, 2007
Thank you for the sacrifice made by Lance Cpl Burgess and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses him! May God bless all of you!!
LCPl Kyle Chase Bravo Co. 1/24 Saginaw MI
August 3, 2007
Ryan, thanks for what you have done for serving this great nation. I am proud to say we are brothers from one Marine to another. Ryan s, family and friends he was a true hero, he knew what he wanted to do when he steped foot in SSgt Barrets office its not rate for men like him wanting to sign up for the infintry, he was a great friend, brother, and Dam good MARINE!! I send my graditued to you. Thanks Ryan for what you have done. SEMPER FI!!
August 2, 2007
If this person can stand in battle to ensure my freedom, then I will stand in grief with his/her family to honor him/her. For every fallen HERO there is a bright star that shines in the evening sky to remind us of the cherished gift we were given – even if for too short a time.
My heart breaks again as I sign yet another guest book of another courageous young soldier who gave their life so selflessly. I wish I never found myself in a position to have to sign another guest book for the rest of my life, but I promised LE RON A. WILSON (a dear friend KIA 7/6/07, 18yrs old) that neither he nor any like him would be forgotten and so I will continue until the day there is no longer the need.
PROUD MOTHER OF A U.S. SOLDIER
Althea Barrett(Queens, NY)
Dan Brendel
July 29, 2007
I was his platoon commander. He continues to be one of the best marines and one of the best men I have served with. I wish we could trade places. To his parents...you raised an amazing son. Neither this country nor I can ever repay the debt your family is owed. God bless you.
jordan spitler
June 27, 2007
He was the greatest of all at least to me.I loved him a lot he was my cousin.He was good at what he was suppose to do.It was very sad when we found out he had died but.....he died doing what he wanted to do and he succeeded.He was very young when he died.I am very pround of him because he fought for our country.He was very good.
Lindsey Burgess-Stopka
April 27, 2007
Happy belated birthday little brother!! We celebrated for you yesterday, missing you terribly!!! We wish you were here! Hope all is well in Heaven! We love you.
Michael Iezzi
April 26, 2007
Ryan,
Happy Birthday in Heaven. May God hold you in the palm of His hand. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Robyn Garside
April 11, 2007
MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOURS. I HAVE JUST LEARNED OF YOUR GREAT LOSS AND WISH TO EXPRESS MY DEEPEST SYMPATHIES. PLEASE KNOW THAT THERE ARE PEOPLE OUT HERE WHO DO CARE AND YOUR HERO WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN. HOLD TIGHT TO YOUR TREASURED MEMORIES THAT HIS SPECIAL SMILE MAY CONTINUE TO SHINE ON. I PRAY THAT PEACE WILL FIND YOU ALL SOMEDAY. GODSPEED AND SEMPER FI.
A PROUD MARINE MOM
Kristopher Shafer
March 18, 2007
Sorry Lindsey. I know it must hurt. I share your pain, every U.S. Military man lost feels like another brother gone forever. Live your life in happiness and be successful because we all fight for your right to do so. Ryan... Rest in peace brother, the rest of your brothers and I shall carry on your fight for years to come.
Sarah King
March 15, 2007
I'm very sorry for your family's loss. I appreciate his dedication to the people of the United States.
Michael Iezzi
March 15, 2007
Father we entrust our brother Ryan to your mercy. You loved him greatly in this life: now that he is freed from all its cares, give him happiness and peace forever. Welcome him now into paradise where there will be no more sorrow, no more weeping or pain, but only peace and joy with Jesus your Son, and the Holy Spirit forever and ever.
May God hold Ryan in the palm of His hand. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. My deepest sympathy.
Henryk Zaleski (USN-Ret)
March 15, 2007
You gave your all and now rest in peace.
Jamie( Proud wife of a deployed Sailor) Graves
March 14, 2007
Thoughts and prayers to the Burgess family!!
Thank You for your ultimate sacrifice, you will be forever missed and remembered as our HERO!!
ManY BleSSingS
Natosha Smeaton
February 14, 2007
I will never forget all the fun times i got to spend with Ryan, and the one that stands out the most is when he took me to homecoming and made me feel like i fit in with eveyone else! When ever i was done Ryan was there, he was a great friend, and will always be in my heart!!! I am soo thankful to have known him and i am glad i can say i was a friend.He will always be missed but Never forgotten!!!
Carol Cline
February 8, 2007
No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. My deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.
Megan Le Blanc
January 31, 2007
Ryan, there will never be a day that goes by that I won't think about you or what you have done for this country. It takes a very special person to be called a Hero and you are that person. Your memory will live on through all of us. I pray for you and your family. You are truely the Brother I never had. We love you and Godspeed with you and your family.
Lee Sirotnak
January 26, 2007
My heart is heavy as I think of your family in this time of loss, and thankful for Ryan's courage and sacrifice. You are in my prayers as I ask God to bring you peace and comfort. We will not forget. Semper Fi.
Ed Macomber
January 25, 2007
Dear Family of Ryan Burgess. I make it a point to read about every hero killed when they appear in the Washington Post. I have however, never signed a guest book. When I saw that great smile on your sons face, I was compelled to write and tell you how sorry I am for your tremendous loss. I think Ryan's face will forever be in my mind as a representative of all the wonderful men and women who have died in this war. I have two sons and can't imagine the sorrow and grief you must be feeling for losing your beautiful boy. God bless you and may Ryan be forever at peace and may everyday bring you more and more wonderful memories, which help ease your pain. Please accept my heartfelt sorrow.
Claire Zawistowski
January 23, 2007
Dear Burgess Family,
Even though we have never met I feel as if we are a part of a family. My daughter's fiancee was killed in Iraq by an IED on 10/3/05. I pray that you will feel God holding you as close to His heart as He has held my family this past year and a half. May you know His comfort and peace.
Jennifer Borden
January 22, 2007
To the family of Lance Cpl. Ryan J. Burgess....i did not know you son, but i just wanted to let your family know that your son is a true hero!
Jodie Le Blanc
January 22, 2007
There will never be a day I will not think or pray for you Ryan and your family. You are a HERO! Even though you are not physically here with us, your presents will always be felt. We love you and will always miss you.
Tom Black
January 19, 2007
Dear Burgess Family:
I am sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
I did not know Ryan, but it is brave people like him that make this nation great.
Cindy Szepe
January 17, 2007
Ryan, thank you for your sacrifice for our Country. We will forever be indebted to you.
The Land of the Free, Because of the Brave
Susan and Michael Woodruff
January 10, 2007
Dear Burgess Family,
We are so sorry for your loss. We appreciate your son for serving his country. He is truly a hero. Our son was a LCpl in the Marine Corp. He died over a year ago so we know first-hand the grief you are dealing with. Our sons are now angels in heaven. Cherish those wonderful memories you have of your wonderful son. Our prayers are with you and your family. God Bless you!
(LCpl Mark R Woodruff)
Joshua and April Morales
January 10, 2007
To Ryan's family and friends-
My family and I are praying for you and your family during this difficult time. We send our deepest empathy as we lost our Marine on 11/30/05 in Fallujah. We are comforted to know that our Marines are serving their country with such honor and bravery. We are so proud of our Marines and all of our other service men and women for all that they have done and continue to do to keep us safe and to give us the freedom we have that so many take for granted.
They are true Heroes and need to always be remembered for their selflessness and sacrifice to better our world. We will forever be united in the loss of our heros. We are so sorry for your loss and hope our words will ease some of the pain, and maybe fill some of your emptiness.
Yesterday, Today, Forever – Semper Fi - Marines!
Our sincerest gratitude for their bravery-
The family of Cpl. William "Billy" Taylor
2/6 WPNS
KIA outside of Fallujah 11/30/05
Glen Nevogt
January 10, 2007
“Paid in Full”
To Honor The Service of Fallen and Injured Marines
Marines through and through, they paid the price
Six thousand miles away, we live the life
For which they paid with their blood, spirits and bodies
We will never forget what they paid in full
We hope and we pray that somehow their loved ones find comfort
In God, in the flag, in the memory of their loved ones’ bravery
They’re gone now but we see them still…proud, strong, willing
Covering each other’s backs… courageous, moving forward
What kind of love did they have for us to be willing
To give it all for the Black, White, Jew, Christian, Muslim?
We don’t comprehend but we honor you now and forever
You are Our Marines…some living…some not
Forever in our hearts we will cherish your lives
Lives too short yet immortal they’ll be
Highest brotherhood of the Few, the Proud
They stand at attention, and we gaze with awe
Some know their names not, but our admiration for them
Flows limitless within us, between us
They sacrificed their limbs or their lives
Freedom still rings, a soft sound across the miles
It tolls slowly; all of creation takes note
Of the lives that were lost for people unknown
Out of sight but not lost; forever among us
The starched blues marching straight
Toward the place where we will meet them
Many years from now…how we loved them…
Well done beloved Brothers and Sisters…You’ve paid it in full
Always Faithful Marines, You Have Paid it in Full
CPL AARON ALLEN USMC
January 9, 2007
My wife knew that being alone on new years was the least she could give to support me in my escorting Ryan home to his family. As much as I would have loved to be with my family over the holidays it was only a small sacrifice to pay to help a MARINE come home. I believe that there is something awesome about men who will stick closer than a brother and never give up whatever the cost. According to his friends and family Ryan was such a man. The Burgess Family, you all are incredible people, you touch my heart and will always be on my mind.
Amanda Wahr
January 8, 2007
First off I would like to thank Ryan for serving our country. I am soo sorry for the loss that has come from it. I lost my cousin this past August, although he wasn't killed in Iraq he was injured over there 3 years ago. I feel your great sorrow.
Carolyn Lightfoot
January 8, 2007
To the family of LCpl. Ryan J. Burgess;
My heart breaks for your family at the loss of your hero.
I know that there is nothing we can say to take away the pain you are feeling - but I just hope knowing that there are so many people out there that do care about you!
Our son is also with the 3/4 and I know that this was very hard for him.
Please know that we are thinking about you now - and in the months ahead.
Your son is a hero - and will always be remembered! He is now an angel watching over all of us.
God bless and Semper Fi,
Scott Dubay
January 8, 2007
Ryan will never be forgotten. He faught to spread the gift of the American Dream. In doing so he gave the ultimate gift. I will pray for the Burgess family and their strength to get through these times.
Tom Tucker
January 8, 2007
My deepest sympathies and my prayers go out to you, Kim, and your family. Please receive peace in the knowledge that Ryan is now experiencing eternal happiness as he is with our Lord.
Lindsey Burgess-Stopka
January 6, 2007
I would like to thank all who recognize my brother as a true AMERICAN HERO! I appreciate your thoughts, prayers, comments and condolences. My family and I thank you.
To the best little brother in the world! May God bless you and keep you, make His face shine upon you! I will love you today, forever and always.
Tom Gugliuzza-Smith
January 5, 2007
My heartfelt sympathy to the Burgess family in the loss of Ryan. I did not know Ryan, but my heart is broken and I am saddened for your loss of such a fine young person and hero. May God bring you peace in your heart as you reflect on all the wonderful memories you hold so close. Please know that you are in my heart and prayers. My heart was touched by the many wonderful/beautiful things written about you. Ryan you are my hero and you will NEVER be forgotten. Take care of Kyle.
I send each of you a hug from the most inner part of my heart.
Love and Peace
Tom
To live in the hearts
of those you leave behind
is never to die"
~Robert Orr~
Casandra Nolen
January 4, 2007
My husband was KIA right alongside Lance Cpl Burgess. I am so sorry for you loss. I can honestly say I know what you are going through. Just take comfort in knowing that he is in a better place right now and is watching over you. My husband is Hospitalman Kyle Nolen. These young men will forever be heros and never forgotten.
Connie Buckallew
January 4, 2007
I did not know Ryan personally but I want the family to know our hearts are with them at this time and we will continually pray for strength at this time. I know there is lots of love being sent from everywhere in this country for the ultimate sacrifice. Love and Peace
Becky Schmiedeknecht
January 3, 2007
God bless your family at this difficult time. Although we didn't know Ryan, we thank him and your family for his courage, his service to our great country and the sacrifice he made for all. Know that we hold your family in our prayers and we sincerely hope you will find comfort in the memories of your brave son.
The Schmiedeknecht Family:
Lee(USNavy Ret.) & Becky,
Sgt. Kyle Schmiedeknecht,US Army, Afghanistan,
Lt. Adam(USNavy)& Whitney Schmiedeknecht, Kaneohe, HI
Sheryl Holliday
January 3, 2007
My deepest sympathies Kim and family.
Gary Keith
January 3, 2007
My deepest sympathy and sorrow for your loss.
Trudy Lowe
January 3, 2007
My heartfelt sympathies to your family. My heart breaks with each new name added to this list, and I am saddened by your loss. Know that you are surrounded by prayers, grace and the deep gratitude of all who live in freedom. My God hold you in his arms and grant you peace. Please find joy in the memories of your loved one and comfort knowing so many are holding you in their hearts.
Daryl Herkner
January 3, 2007
Dear Jon D, Kim, and the entire family; Words cannot begin to tell you how sorry I am for your loss. Ryan truely gave the Ultimate Sacrifice for our country and for that I will forever be grateful. I will continue to pray for your strength and understanding during this time of loss and heartache.
Cherie Wilson
January 2, 2007
I did not know Ryan but as an American am thankful for those who are willing to fight to keep us all free. May God Bless his family & friends at this difficult time.
Randi Frazer (Robinson)
January 2, 2007
My thoughts and prayers go out to the Burgess Family. Ryan was a brave person to risk his life for our country and for that he will always be remembered.
Devin Tucker
January 2, 2007
i'm very sorry to here about ryan he was a wonderful person and a good friend goo dluck to you and your family. again i'm very sorry
Anna Mosher
January 2, 2007
My thoughts and prayers go out to the Burgess family. I didn't know Ryan personally, but I went to Meridian with his sister. I would like to thank Ryan for giving his all to protect our nation. God bless.
Holly Caldwell
January 2, 2007
God bless your family during this difficult time. Even though I never met Ryan, I am certain he was doing what he truely belived in. My son is currently serving in Iraq, and I know how dedicated our soldiers are to making sure we are all safe here. I will be forever grateful. My prayers are with you.
Marinell Schafer
January 2, 2007
As a resident of Hope, I am sad to lose one of our own. Ryan gave the ultimate for us all to have our freedom. May God be with your family.
Norm Halstead
January 1, 2007
Thank you for your service and ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. My son-in-law is a Marine currently serving in Iraq and my son is a Marine who will serve his second Iraq tour in June 2007. Our family cannot begin to understand your grief at this time but you are in our prayers. God bless your family.
Becky Peters
January 1, 2007
Though I didn't know him personally, I did graduate from Meridian in 1995 and the Burgess name was well known. His bravery and commitment to serve our country and protect our rights will never be forgotten. May his family be looked over by the lord and may he always rest in peace. Thank you Ryan for your duty served.
MSGT (Ret) USAF
January 1, 2007
Thank you for your service to our country and your supreme sacrifice to defend my freedom. My sincerest sympathy to your family and friends
Susan & Bill Kartz
January 1, 2007
For the Burgess family, my husb and &I lived in Midland for a l0ng time before moving to southeastern Michigan. We all are so fortunate to have young women & men to keep us safe as Ryan did.
We appreciate each and every one of them. Tis not an easy job, they are doing. Sending our love, condolences and just a big thank you to Ryan, his family and all those serving. We have a grandson that served two deployments 16 months in the persian gulf, on the U.S.S Nimitz.
GodSpeed Ryan, & carry on !
Cathy Maynard
January 1, 2007
May God rest your soul and bring comfort to your family and friends in this hardest of times. I thank you for your courage and ultimate sacrifice that you have given for all of us, here in your country of the United States of America. Peace be with your family.
David Heath
December 31, 2006
Thank you for your service to our country. God Bless You and your family.
Nikki and Rob Reinke
December 31, 2006
My husband and I both graduated from Meridian High. I was 00 my husband was 01. Though we didn't know Ryan personally it hits home with both of us having family and friends over there. I want the family to know that our thoughts and prayers are being sent to the family and friends of a fallen soldier. God Bless.
Charlene Long
December 31, 2006
I want to extend my deepest sympathy to your family. Ryan died defending our country and my freedoms. I am truely grateful and thank him for that.
God Bless your family.
Shelley Sayen
December 31, 2006
You don't know me, I didn't know you. Thank you for protecting us. May God surround your family in comfort.
William K. Carrington
December 31, 2006
I would like to give my heartfelt thanks to Ryan for being one of the brave soldiers who helped keep America free. You served our country with honor and dignity and will always be remembered.
Gregg Hurley
December 30, 2006
God bless the Ryan Burgess family, I was one of the Northwest Airlines Pilots that brought Ryan home on his final flight to be with his family. I stood on the cold tarmac with great sorrow and also great pride in the young Marine for the sacrifice given to this country to protect our way of life. Thank you Ryan and your family for your your service.
Gregg Hurley
NWA Pilot (USN)
Andrea Jenison
December 30, 2006
The world will honestly never be the same without Ryan in it. I have known him for years and can truely say that he was an honest and wonderful person. Not a day will go by where he is not missed, and my heart goes out to his family in this hard time.
JoAnn Samuel
December 30, 2006
Ryan and I went to elementary and junior high together. We saw each other here and there over the years of high school and after, but I will always remember how he could always make me laugh when I was down.
Galen & Margaret Gransden
December 30, 2006
Ryan will be missed by all in Edenville Township where he lived and grew up into man-hood.
Teresa Coates
December 29, 2006
i have known ryan burgess since i was 12 or 13 years old. I never imagined in my wildest dreams that fate would lead him here- there are many good things I could say about ryan, but i wouldnt know where to start. So rest in peace buddy, and I will never forget the good times we had in high school, alot of people loved you.
Cordy Diaz
December 24, 2006
To the family of Lance Cpl. Ryan J. Burgess, It is with great sorrow that I offer my deepest sympathy and condolences. Ryan will never be forgotten. My thoughts and prayers are with you always.
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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 Burgess'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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