Jennifer Montoya of Majestic Events called me today to share the sad news of the sudden passing of a mutual former client, Ryan Holmes. Along with consultant Deanna Boyce of Eventfull Planning and photographer Angela Talley, I covered his and Stephanie’s beautiful wedding and reception three years ago at the Columbia Club.
It remains one of the most memorable events for all of us that still seems to come up often in conversation, but Ryan really made the biggest impression on me the night before at the rehearsal dinner at Rock Bottom Brewery. It was there during the speeches that it became clear what a special person he was, and how much he truly cherished his family, especially his mother who had passed away earlier. There wasn’t a dry eye in the house, and it says a lot that that particular memory is more salient to me today than the infamous Pacers-Pistons brawl that took place on the big-screens later that night.
It will be with a heavy heart that I will be working with Ryan’s family over the next few days to create a photo presentation for his memorial service at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church. I thought this was the least I could do for someone who, like all former clients, will always be part of the IndyVisual “family.” All of my heartfelt thoughts and prayers go out to Stephanie, their new baby, Ryan’s dad and the rest of their family. Here’s an Indianapolis Star article with more information about his passing.
UPDATE (8/9/07): Wow. Although I can’t begin to fathom what the Holmes and Grumbacher families are going through, it was inspirational to arrive at our huge church and see a full parking lot and endless line of visitors weaving back and forth in the narthex waiting to pay their respects. It’s a testament to how many people’s lives Ryan has touched over his 34 years. It also makes me want to live my life in a way that I can touch so many people by the time I move on…
live everyday like it is your last… isn’t that what they say???
Ryan was a good friend of mine growing up in Peru, and he was so special in so many ways. I never heard Ryan say a bad word about anyone, and I never saw him treat anyone different than anyone else. He was truly genuine, and a fierce competitor on the athletic fields. I will truly miss “Magoo” and hope that I can touch as many lives as he has. God Bless.
Bob, You couldn’t have described Ryan better. I didn’t know Ryan well, but from the few days that I did, I could tell that he and Stephanie were very special people. I am honored to have been the photographer at their wedding and their family will be in my prayers. Angela
Bob, thank you so much for putting this together. Your kindness is so very much appreciated. Yes Ryan was one of a kind. I was honored not only to have him as a son in law, but to work together for 2 years. He would have been the “best father” his son, Will could have ever imagined. His love and compassion will live on and that is how we will all remember him. God bless all of you that helped us get thru this most diffictult time.
Thank you so much for posting this in memory of Ryan. I knew Ryan since kindergarten & he was such an amazing boy. Even then, his display of integrity was evident & he led by example. He is one my favorite childhood memories & I only wish that I had kept in contact w/ him throughout the years. My heart aches for his family & I pray for the Lord to comfort them for the years to come. Ryan was an angel on earth & I’m honored to say that I knew him. This tragedy has certainly inspired me to try to be a better person in every way that I can.
I miss you, Ryan…your memory will live in our hearts forever. May God bless all your loved ones & watch over your darling wife & son.
Blessings,
Tanya