The University of Minnesota Duluth announced Wednesday morning that Reed Ryan, a senior defensive lineman on the football team, passed away Tuesday at Essentia Duluth. He was 22 years old.
UMD’s release does not list a cause of death.
“Our staff and players are devastated about Reed’s passing,” UMD head football coach Curt Wiese said in the school’s statement. “Reed aspired to be better every day at whatever task was at hand. He helped bring out the best in others with his positive attitude, infectious smile, and genuine care for the people around him. We were fortunate to have Reed on our team, and he made our program, our department, and our community a better place in a short period of time. Reed will be greatly missed, but his legacy will live on forever. He was the epitome of a UMD Bulldog, and what we can all aspire to be. To his family, thank you for allowing us to be part of his inspiring young life. Reed was a Bulldog through and through.”
A native of Waunakee, Wisc., Ryan was part of the North Dakota State program for four years, each season earning a sport on the Missouri Valley Conference Academic Honor Roll. He was enrolled at the Labovitz School of Business and Economics at UMD, working on a double major in marketing and professional sales.
NDSU paid tribute to Ryan Wednesday on the social media platform X.
The ultimate teammate, a constant source of joy, a genuine selfless spirit, and a beloved friend.
We’ll miss you, Reed. Your legacy will live on. pic.twitter.com/p9B3ytXbkd
— NDSU Football (@NDSUfootball) November 29, 2023
“Reed had a positive impact on so many and we are deeply saddened by his passing,” said UMD director of athletics Forrest Karr. “Reed was a kind, caring and thoughtful young man who enjoyed bringing people together. He grew up in my hometown and was beloved by those who knew him in Waunakee, Fargo, Duluth, and beyond. Our thoughts and prayers are with Reed’s family and friends during this time of sorrow. We are grateful for everyone who is supporting Reed’s teammates and our staff members.”
In celebration of Reed’s life, a memorial wake will be held on Friday night, Dec. 1, from 3:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. at Blackhawk Church on 9620 Brader Way in Middleton, Wis. His funeral will be held Saturday, Dec. 2 with a short wake at 10:00 a.m., followed by an 11:00 a.m. service at Blackhawk Church.
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