Ryan Michael McNeil, age 41, of Park Rapids, MN, passed away on October 9, 2025 in Menahga, MN.

Ryan was born on February 10, 1984, in Park Rapids, MN to Patty Geldert (McNeil) & Rick Holman. He grew up in the Dayton/Elk River MN area, briefly in Colorado, then later moving to northern MN where he resided near Park Rapids & Menahga MN.

From a young age, it was apparent Ryan danced to the beat of a unique, very loud, drum. He was born with a full head of jet-black hair, long, black eye lashes, a wild spirit, & absolutely no fear. As he grew up, Ryan often enjoyed spending time outdoors, fishing, music, & road trips on motorcycles.

Ryan faced heavy challenges in life, including various struggles with poly-substance use & mental health battles starting very early in his teenage years. Despite these hardships, Ryan would have bouts of happiness that would show his kind heart, fierce loyalty towards his family & friends, courage, & pure determination to prove the world wrong. He just ran out of time. 

Although Ryan's chosen path in life wasn't the sweet, fairytale kind, he sure made the 41 chapters of it fast paced; an endless page turner for those who loved & cared for him. In the end, Ryan was much more than his struggles — he was someone's father, son, brother, uncle, & friend. Those close to him will miss his unique laugh & call to attention presence.

Ryan is survived by his daughter Summer Stewart, parents Patty Geldert (Tom) & Rick Holman (Laurie), Sisters Andrea Stafford (Michael), Kendra Gerdes (Kyle), Nieces & Nephews Justin Ylonen, Payton Stafford, Brandon Stafford, Olivia Gerdes, & Raylynn Gerdes, Grandmother Sylvia Sheeran, Aunts & Uncles Kim Petrie (Doug), Helen Sheeran, Randy Sheeran (Jeanette), Carol Leet (Randy), & Tom Hackler, along with several cousins. Preceded in death by Grandparents Ray Sheeran, Sharon (Sheeran) & Art Melbo, Tom & Audrey Geldert, Uncle Mike Sheeran, Aunt & Godmother Nancy Hackler (Geldert).

Special thank you & gratitude to the Wadena County Sheriff's office & local first responders for their heroic efforts despite the outcome.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Ryan's name to NAMI of Minnesota. https://namimn.org/get-involv…

Celebration of Life: TBD

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