Ryan Craig Cherry

Ryan Craig Cherry, formerly of Geneseo, a beacon of love and adventure, left this world on May 18, 2024, at the age of 41, at his home in Silvis, IL.  Cremation rites will be accorded.  Friends, family, and co-workers are invited to join us at Cherry’s Ace Farewell that will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 15, 2024, at Brandon and Kelsey Cherry’s home.  The address for the farewell service is 23079 Dorchester Drive, Geneseo, IL, 61254.  Vandemore Funeral Homes & Crematory – Geneseo Chapel will be assisting the family with arrangements.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Ryan Cherry Memorial Fund.

Born on September 19, 1982, in Geneseo, IL, the son of Roger Cherry and Tammy Ricketts.  Ryan's zest for life was evident from his earliest days. He was a proud graduate of JD Darnall High School, Geneseo, class of 2000, and went on to earn an associate degree in CNC from Black Hawk College in Moline, IL. Ryan's professional journey was marked by his dedicated work in the warehouse at John Deere PDC, where he was not only a valued employee but also a cherished colleague.

Ryan's life was a testament to the power of embracing the great outdoors. An avid hunter and fisherman, he found solace and joy in the natural world. His passion for physical challenges was unmatched, as evidenced by his remarkable achievement of completing four Ironman competitions and running in numerous local races. Ryan's love for his dog, Seven, was profound, and their adventures together were the stuff of legend.

Family and friends were the cornerstone of Ryan's existence. He cherished every moment spent with them, infusing laughter and joy into their lives. His playful spirit shone brightest when he was giving his nieces and nephews a "hard time," a testament to his loving and kind nature. Ryan's presence was a gift to all who knew him, and his absence leaves a void that can never be filled.

Those left to cherish his memory include his faithful dog and best friend, Seven; parents, Roger (Rosie) Cherry of Geneseo and Tammy (Dwaine) Bowman of Geneseo; siblings, Jason (Nicole) Cherry of Geneseo, Brandon (Kelsey) Cherry of Geneseo, and Tabatha Glisan of Geneseo; paternal grandfather, Ken “Pops” Cherry; maternal grandparents, Bob (Theresa) Ricketts; several aunts and uncles; and his beloved nieces and nephews, Grace, Marley, Quinn, Tatum, Tatiana, Charlee, Lane, Daxton, and Miles.

Ryan was preceded in death by his grandmother, Jacky Cherry; aunt, Kim Ricketts; and brother-in-law, Derrick Glisan.