Robert “Bob” Ryan

Robert (Bob) Ryan, age 85, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 17, 2025, with his daughters by his side.

Bob was born on December 18, 1939, in Alameda, California, to Marie and Vincent Ryan. He was the eldest of two sons and is survived by his younger brother, Kevin Ryan. Bob was raised in Weaverville, California, surrounded by a large extended family, including grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

From a young age, Bob had a passion for airplanes and flying. He worked at the local airport in exchange for flying lessons and notedly earned his pilot’s license at the age of 15 — before he got a driver’s license. After graduating from Trinity County High School in 1957, he attended Saint Louis University, where he earned a degree in Aeronautical Engineering.

Bob served as a Captain in the United States Air Force, flying the KC-135 Stratotanker. While stationed in Spokane, Washington, he met the love of his life, Kay Charlene Bowne. They were married on September 4, 1965, and later settled in Auburn, Washington, where they raised their daughters.

Following his military service, Bob continued his aviation career as a commercial pilot with Northwest Airlines. He enjoyed a distinguished career, retiring as a Captain flying Boeing 747s, primarily on international routes to Japan.

Bob is survived by his loving daughters, DeNae Ryan McGee (son-in-law Tom McGee) and Kellie Ryan (son-in-law Rob Taft); his grandchildren, Jack McGee and Ryan McGee; his brother, Kevin Ryan, and sister-in-law, Sharon Ryan; as well as his nephew, Jordan Ryan (Jenny Ryan), and niece, Melissa Fore (Kevin Fore).

He loved a near-scalding cup of coffee, a dinner table surrounded by loved ones, a nice glass of wine, living in a small town and the occasional road trip with stops along the way to visit with family and friends.

He will be remembered for his dedication and love of his wife and daughters; always supporting them to pursue their dreams and goals. His legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

- Care Entrusted to Emmick Family Funeral Home-