Browse the obituary of residing in the province of province1} for funeral details
Rachel Ryan Obituary
Rachel Ryan passed away suddenly at home on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at the age of 57. Rachel is survived by her husband, Spencer Stevens and their 2 sons, Adam and Morgan (Megan), as well as Adam and Morgan’s adoptive parents Wendy and Dave Cairns. Rachel is also survived by her mother Judy Ryan, brother Richard Ryan (Kimberley), brother Rob Ryan (Lloy) and sister Lise Brown. As well as her 9 nieces and nephews (Katherine, Kelsie, Kane, Paige, Nichelle, Jessica, Justin, Meaghan and Amy). Rachel was predeceased by her father Richard Ryan and sister Mary Galandy.
Rachel was born in Calgary, to Richard and Judy Ryan. Growing up, she spent many hours at the YMCA swimming, she also loved horseback riding, animals and family trips in the motorhome. Rachel was a faithful Brownie at a young age, earning her many badges. One of her favorite things to do was going to the family vacation spot, Akiskinook (Lake Windermere). She loved it there so much that she and Spencer continued to spend holidays there (renting) even after it was sold.
As a late teen, Rachel was one of the first 15 people to join the Mount Royal Youth Choir. Rachel loved to sing, music gave her comfort when life was challenging. In her early 20’s she travelled with the Choir to England, Wales, Australia as well as the Vancouver Olympics. One of her Choir highlights was singing at ’88 Olympics.
Rachel attended Lethbridge College and Mount Royal College. This is where she was introduced to the Special Olympics. Through the Special Olympics she was given many opportunities to try new skills, travel and meet new and lifelong friends. It is through the Special Olympics and work experience that Rachel met Spencer Stevens, the love of her life for 32 years.
Rachel competed in the Special Olympics, training in swimming, figure skating, bowling, and power lifting. These were her main events, but she tried them all. Here she thrived and her shyness vanished, she was given the opportunity to publicly speak, help and encourage younger athletes, in turn, giving her even more confidence. She was given the honor of carrying the Flag in Quebec at the Winter Special Olympics. Throughout the years, Rachel continued with the Special Olympics, along with Spencer and then in later years, with their son Adam. Right up until her passing Rachel, Spencer and Adam trained together weekly power lifting. Rachel would proudly share her deadlift record of 275Ibs!
In her adult years, Rachel had many work experiences, the latest was with the Ventures in Fish Creek Park. This suited her to a T as she loved the outdoors and gardening/plants. Being in such a beautiful environment she took (and shared) many photos. She loved to share and organize her photos, even created calendars showcasing some of her best shots. Rachel had a green thumb and looked forward to planting and tending to the community garden in her community every year. While Rachel was happy with her hands in the plants, she was happiest spending time with her family, always being the first one to encourage any type of larger family get-together.
Rachel participated in and volunteered for many hours to the Special Olympics as well as The Calgary City Police Torch Run. The family would like to say a heartfelt thank you to the Special Olympics for the safe and loving environment provided not only to Rachel but all their athletes. We would also like to thank The Calgary City Police for providing the Honour Guard and Bagpiper in honour of Rachel’s service.
Rachel loved deeply and will be deeply missed.
Prayer Service will be held at St. Gerard’s Catholic Church (8944 Elbow Dr. SW) on Thursday, January 23, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Gerard’s Catholic Church (8944 Elbow Dr. SW) on Friday, January 24, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., with a reception to follow. Graveside Service to follow at Eden Brook Memorial Gardens.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Rachel’s name to the Special Olympics at www.specialolympics.ca/.
To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Rachel Ryan, please visit our Tree Store.
January 26 1967 January 14 2025 57 Years Old
Death notice for the town of: Calgary, Province: Alberta
death notice Rachel Ryan January 26 1967 January 14 2025 57 Years Old
obituaries notice Rachel Ryan January 26 1967 January 14 2025 57 Years Old
We offer our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Rachel Ryan January 26 1967 January 14 2025 57 Years Old and hope that their memory may be a source of comfort during this difficult time. Your thoughts and kind words are greatly appreciated.
