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Memorial Keepers(2)
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Ryan Michael Kokoszka
January 17th, 1989 - April 26th, 2024
January 17th, 1989 - April 26th, 2024
So, we all know Ryan was awesome. Instead of writing some long story about his life, we'll leave it to you. Tell a funny/happy story about a time you spent with him that made you smile or laugh. If there's something we can be sure of, Ryan would want us to celebrate and not be sad.
Celebration of Life on Saturday, May 18 — Ryan would have hated a formal service. He would have never wanted his family and friends to sit in a dark and dreary funeral home to share memories and tears. So, in honor of Ry, we chose to celebrate him by doing some of the SAFE things he loved best: eating good food, drinking the best bourbon, and spending time with friends and family (which of course, includes Roxie). **Please RSVP in the "Events" tab***
Some of Ryan’s closest friends will be hosting an informal gathering to celebrate how amazing Ryan was in the short 35 years he was able to be with us. We will be opening Ryan’s home in Alexandria, VA to those who would like to eat, drink, and talk about all the reasons we love Ry.
The event starts at 1 PM but arrival time is completely flexible as we expect a large number of people to attend. The celebration will continue throughout the day.
In addition, you can support the JMU CIS scholarship which will be used to enable education for need-based cyber students of the future.
**Important note for everyone on posting your stories:
We all know Ryan did more in his 35 years than 10 people combined do in a lifetime. Because of this, we all have a lot to say about him, so you are welcome to post more than one message!
Events
Create an event page to coordinate a gathering in honor of Ryan
Tributes
Share a favorite memory, send condolences, and honor Ryan’s life with a heartfelt message.
Leigh Anne Brewster
I came across this photo and wondered what Ryan was up to all these years later. Only to learn he had tragically passed. I am deeply saddened by this and send my love and condolences to his family. He was a true gentleman with a kind and adventurous spirit. I know he made his family proud.
Luca and Edda
We remember our dear friend Ryan with great affection. We remember the negroni drinks he brought us, the dinners in the garden, the walks with him and Roxy, the help he gave us on everything around the house, his kindness, his friendship...
Liana Mensh
This Thanksgiving I’m reflecting on how thankful I am for Ryan, his friendship and light that he’s brought my life. It’s still unbelievable that he’s not here to celebrate with us, but man am I thankful for my Ry. Sending love to everyone who shares in loving Ryan. I’m thankful to be able to remember him with you all ❤️
Liana Mensh
Leading up to my wedding I’ve been thinking about Ryan a lot. I wish so much that he could be here, and it makes me thankful for the weddings and celebrations we’ve been to together. Sending love to the Kokoszka family, and looking forward to us being together this weekend! Love you Ry
TJ
Still thinking about Ryan a year later. Since he moved to Denver we caught up less frequently, but every year without fail he'd reach out when he received our Christmas card to comment on the family and hear what's new. We went through JMU's CIS program together and so each year I'll be donating to his memorial fund and will be asking for others in my network to do the same. What a great thing to establish to continue his legacy! I'll try to share other photos in future posts - but the below is when we visited a friend who lived in Nashville at the time. We used it as an excuse to go see the Redskins and Titans play. Ryan and I drove from Northern Virginia - something Ryan made feel effortless thanks to his him being so easy to hang out with.
Patrick Incitti
I'll never forget the day I met Ryan. One of the first things he led with (pun intended) was his passion for climbing. When I told him that I was afraid of heights, he responded, "Get over it." It wasn’t long after that he invited me to "get on the rocks." I asked him if maybe we should start in the gym. He said, "No, you’ll be fine." And I was. He was so patient, even when it took me multiple times to figure out how to tie the knot. He always made sure that I not only was safe but that I felt safe. He always took that extra step (even though it took more time) so that I felt comfortable. I am so grateful to Ryan for teaching me so much, not just about rock climbing, but about life itself. His enthusiasm, strength, and fearless spirit showed me new perspectives and inspired me to push beyond my limits. He showed me that the most important climbs aren't always on the rock faces, but in our daily lives and how we approach them. It's hard to put into words how much he meant to me and how profound his impact has been on my life. Though knowing him was brief, the lessons he imparted will stay with me forever. I think what I’ll smile about most when I think of Ryan is his ability to tie whatever he was doing back to some climbing terminology. One day, we were texting about working out, and I asked him if he wanted me to draft up a workout or if he had one. He said, "Don’t worry about it, I'll lead." As I navigate the complexities of life, I find myself looking for his lead. His guidance and wisdom continue to light my path and give me the courage to face each new day. He will always hold a special place in my memory and will be with me in every ascent and descent I face. I promise to carry his spirit with me, using it to navigate the cruxes of life and find joy in every summit. Rest well, my friend. Your legacy continues to reach new heights. Until we meet again at the final belay. Climb on… Ryan took this picture from the same area where he taught me how to climb for the first time. I always loved it, as it captures the joy on his face doing what he so loved to do.
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