Robert M. Ryan
February 6, 1956 – February 24, 2025
Robert Ryan, age 69, was the eleventh child of twelve children born to the union of James A Ryan and Elenora “Nelsen” Ryan. He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers: Quinn, Gary and Dennis; sister Nancy and his oldest grandson, Adam Conan Zook.
Robert grew up in a small, south Omaha home, attended Ss. Peter and Paul Elementary School and Omaha South High School. He worked in several fields from supervising the Omaha spring shop, drywalling with his brother, to running a high-tech mail machine at CSG. Robert retired early due to back issues and spent the last 19 years of his life as an evening custodian for Millard Public Schools, with most of that time spent at Neihardt Elementary School. Robert was good with people and could quickly judge their character, which served him as a part-time bartender, throughout his twenties and thirties.
Robert had many passions; he loved history, reading, football, road trips, singing and spending time with his family.
Robert was a voracious reader and knew the history of ancient times, our county, science and space. He also loved fiction, some of his favorites were “The Hobbit” , “The Lord of the Rings” series, the “Dune” series and the “Wild Robot” series. On a more scientific level, he devoured books by Karl Sagan, and Stephen Hawking. Many of his strong beliefs were influenced by these men.
He got interested in football when he was young. In 1965, when Joe Namath became the quarterback for the NY Jets, Robert became hooked on the sport. Robert was a loyal Jets fan for his entire life but enjoyed watching all the football games.
You could always tell when things were good with Robert, wherever he was, you could hear the sound of his singing. He must have had the lyrics to hundreds of songs committed to memory, he was so talented and never really realized it.
Robert loved exploring the roads and sights of Nebraska and the surrounding states. One of his fondest memories was taking a 10-day vacation to drive the Nebraska Passport stops, meeting the people and gathering the stamps. Robert took full advantage of every day, you would always find a fishing pole and golf clubs in his vehicle, just in case the opportunity arose to use them.
Robert met his wife Jaci in 1985, at a World Series watch party. They instantly became a couple and married on December 31st, New Year’s Eve so the entire world could celebrate with them. Robert embraced the role of Dad to Jaci’s children, Adam and Trish Zook. The teenaged years were tough, but he navigated the uncharted path and his bond grew stronger with the passing of time.
Robert’s greatest joy was spending time with his family, whether it was a road trip, vacationing, camping or just enjoying dinner together, those moments were cherished. He particularly loved creating games to play at the family Christmas gatherings. Robert had a great sense of humor, he was a big kid at heart and never lost the magic of childhood, playing and having fun, he was quick to lighten a situation with a joke or two.
Robert is survived by his wife, Jaci; son, Adam Zook; daughter, Trish Zook; eight grandchildren: Justin Shriner, Solomen (Madi) Zook, Gregory Zook, Ella Zook, Aleia Zook, Leondra Zook, Sindee Zook, Zana Shaikh-Zook; great- grandson, Jasyn Shriner; his beloved dog, Josie, and extended family and friends.
He will be missed.
CELEBRATION OF LIFE: Sunday, March 9, 2025, from 4:00-7:00PM at Timbercreek Pizza and Pub, 6718 S.178th St.
Heafey-Hoffmann-Dworak-Cutler, West Center Chapel, 7805 West Center Road, Omaha, Ne 68124. (402)-391-3900. www.heafeyheafey.com
2 Comments
Those we love don’t go away. They walk beside us.
Every day unseen, unheard but always with us.
Robert was a wonderful man and will be missed by so many. He could make anyone laugh and I remember him always having a smile on his face. Love you Jaci
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