Our beloved brother Ross Jon Ryckman, 57, died unexpectedly of a heart attack at his home in Huntley, Illinois on May 5, 2024.
He was born in Fort Sill, Oklahoma on October 30, 1966, to parents Bruce and Germaine “Geri” Ryckman. Our mom is the one who gave him the fitting nickname Lil Running Deer. He grew up in Madison, Wisconsin and spent many of his adult years living in Texas and lastly Illinois. He always said that Dallas was his favorite place. He really enjoyed his job as a semi driver and even at times drove tandem trucks and tour buses. He could drive anything.
Ross was a wonderful father and so proud of his son Ross “Rossi” who he loved beyond measure. He was devastated when Rossi was taken too soon at the age of eleven, yet he still managed to find so much love and generosity in that broken heart of his. He frequently checked in on his loved ones and friends and was there to lend a hand with whatever was in his power to provide. He loved his nephews and nieces and their children so much. He volunteered at the Humane Societies of Dallas and Dallas-Ft Worth, cuddling the cats who were so desperate for the love that he happily gave them. He rescued cats Chiquito, Boo and Olivia and gave them much love and care. As was his wish, Ross' final act of selflessness was to gift others with the promise of sight and life through organ and tissue donation.
Ross was incredibly talented and had an unquenchable thirst for knowledge, which fueled many passions such as drawing, fishing, working on his cars and motorcycles, music, cooking, the paranormal, nature, gardening and landscaping, house projects, Scrabble, and animals. He enjoyed talking about politics and his ultimate wish was for world peace. He hated war and violence and that there were people suffering everywhere, especially children. He also had a wicked sense of humor, and his smile could light up an entire universe.
Ross was preceded in death by his beloved son Rossi; his parents; and his uncle Jim. His earthly heart failed, but his strong spirit has gone on to reunite with theirs.
Ross is survived by siblings Roger, Rita, Ron, {Saresa}, Susie, Ryan {Shani}, Renee, and Calista; his partner in life Anh Le; many nephews, nieces, great-nephews, and great-nieces; and his cats Boo and Olivia.
In keeping with Ross' wishes, we are planning a Celebration of Life in his honor, details pending.
We look forward to hearing and sharing some funny and heartwarming stories with people who loved him.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating money or time to the Dane County Humane Society of Wisconsin at https://www.giveshelter.org/.
For further information, please contact the DeFiore Funeral Home 847-515-8772.
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I am so sorry to hear about ross Passing i really touch my heart i've lost a great friend and companion My heart goes out to his family
So Sorry for your Loss Your all in my Thoughts and Prayers
I am so sorry for your loss. Ross was always friendly and smiling. All my thoughts and prayers.
I am so sorry for your loss. Ross was always friendly and smiling. All my thoughts and prayers.
As the mother of his beloved son Rossi, I wish to send my sincerest condolences to all his family. I do feel your pain and I still my heart will always miss him.
Words can't express how saddened I am to hear about Ross' passing. His smile and caring manner will forever live in my memory. I will always be thankful for the time we got to spend together. Deepest condolences to his family and friends,
Beautiful obituary. My deepest sympathy to you Susie & your family. Your brother sounds like he was a wonderful man. May it all bring you peace & comfort that he's with his son Rossi.