A self-proclaimed nerd, Ryan loved sci-fi movies, comic books, ren fairs, and comic cons — but most importantly, all-things-Star Wars. He was a fanatic when it came to Ghostbusters, could out-quote even his nerdiest friends, and would happily spend hours building models or planning the next weekend LARPing adventure.
But he took the ideals that made up those fictional worlds to heart. He accepted people for who they are, always followed the prime directive, and encouraged everyone around him to explore new worlds and boldly go where they had never gone before. With the wisdom of the Jedi, he knew that it is never too late to turn things around, understood that a little hope goes a long way, and that it is always best to be positive and keep your mind open to new possibilities.
Ryan is survived by his wife of 23 years, Karen Creel-Lakes, and son, Jarod; parents Michael and Judith Lakes; sister Amy Vocke and niece Addison; sisters-in-law Karla Creel, Rae Lynn Hancock, Kristy Creel, and Kelly Wuest; nephew Kyle Mason; good friends Shane and Nancy Robison; numerous cousins, extended family and close friends.
A Celebration of Life Memorial for will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, June 19, 2023, at Tobias Funeral Home in Beavercreek (3970 Dayton Xenia Rd, Dayton, OH 45432).
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Ryan's memory may be made to Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, 4550 Montgomery Ave., Suite 1100 N, Bethesda, Maryland 20814 US, https://www.cff.org/donate.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.tobias-fh.com for the Lakes family.
