Ryan's obituary
In Loving Memory of Ryan Richard Lusso, 1978-2023
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Ryan Richard Lusso, beloved father, husband, son, grandson, nephew, cousin, son-in-law and friend who left us far too soon at the age of 44. He passed away peacefully on October 8, 2023, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter and many cherished memories.
Ryan was born December 5, 1978, in Seattle, a bright light from the very beginning. He was the only child of Randy Lusso and Laura Custer. Ryan grew up in West Seattle, where he made many lifetime friends, along with some arguably questionable, crazy memories.
“Lusso,” as he was affectionately called by many, proudly served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1997-2001, adding more lifetime friends and more questionable, crazy memories.
After he discharged from the Marines, Ryan attended Clemson University, earning a degree in Mechanical Engineering.
He spent most of his career at Genie/Terex, a company which he loved to his core. There he demonstrated a tireless work ethic and a commitment to excellence that earned him the respect and admiration of his colleagues and peers.
Ryan was a source of inspiration to many. His strength in the face of adversity was truly remarkable. In 2021, he was diagnosed with glioblastoma brain cancer, which he fought valiantly with wicked determination. Despite the many challenges, he continued to spread love, kindness and an infectious sense of humor that endeared him to all who were fortunate to cross his path.
Ryan leaves behind his high school sweetheart and wife of 24 years, Kari, and their two amazing children, Mason (16) and Sienna (14). His family was his greatest joy and his love for them was boundless. He treasured every moment spent with them, creating intentional memories of camping/hiking, cooking, game playing, traveling, tinkering and laughing that will live on in their hearts forever.
In addition to his immediate family, Ryan is survived by his parents, Randy Lusso and Laura Custer (Ron), his grandfather John Lusso (Patty), aunts, uncles, cousins (who were like his siblings), his mother-in-law Carolyn Hazzard and Kari’s extended family. His family provided him with unwavering support throughout his journey.
Beyond his family, Ryan had a wide and diverse circle of friends and colleagues across the globe, who will forever miss his Lusso wit, grit, and passion.
A memorial service will be held at Tahoma National Cemetery on 11/10/23 at 1:30pm, followed by a Celebration of Life at the Salish Lodge Falls Terrace at 3pm. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests consideration of contribution to Mason and Sienna’s 529 College Funds https://go.fidelity.com/kepc42 & https://go.fidelity.com/ysmom1 or donation to the Marine Corps Reserves Toys for Tots, an organization to which Ryan donated toys to every year since 1998.
Though his time with us was too short, Ryan has left an indelible mark on our lives, reminding us of the preciousness of every moment and the importance of cherishing the ones we love and living life to the fullest. His love and courage will continue to inspire us all.
Rest in peace dearest backpacker, handyman, chef/foodie, singer, dancer, gamer, inventor, dreamer, leader, partier, doer, Clemson fan, gardener, cat lover, intellect, Ryan. You will be missed beyond measure.
Ryan Richard Lusso
December 5, 1978-October 8, 2023