Ryan Joseph Sperry

On Wednesday August 10, 2022 Ryan J. Sperry, beloved son of Sheri and RIck P. Sperry, brother RIck M. Sperry, uncle of Tristan Sperry, and partner of Johnny Varela, passed away at the age of 43.

Ryan was born on June 11, 1979, at Queen of the Valley Hospital in West Covina, California. Ryan attended grammar school at St Margaret Mary Catholic School and Community Free Methodist. Ryan graduated from Etiwanda High School in 1997.

After high school, Ryan decided to enter the Armed Forces. Ryan was born during peacetime. RIck and Sheri never anticipated that either of their sons would say, "I want to join the military!" But one did. Ryan spent a year out of high school studying every aspect of our military services, speaking to all recruiters, and decided he wanted to be a United States Marine. Ryan's goal was to be part of the Marine Corp Security Forces, which he achieved.

Not only was this a decision he was very proud of, but he was also excited to start this journey and his new life.

Ryan had never been away from home. "Boot Camp" took place at Camp Pendleton for 13 weeks. Having Ryan away for 13 weeks was very hard on his mom, dad and brother.

When Ryan "graduated' from Boot Camp, his graduation ceremony was close by in San Diego. The entire family was invited to participate in the celebration. It was a celebration the family won't ever forget. Rick and Sheri had a big party at a local restaurant, and everyone attended.

After all of his training, he went overseas to protect the Monai Compound in the Middle East. At the time, Bahrain was considered the third highest worldwide threat to our troops...While Ryan was in Bahrain, the USS Cole was bombed on October 12, 2000, and he volunteered to guard it. He was on duty and was turned down. Marines in his unit were pulled from Bahrain because it was the closest point to the terrorist attack.

What many people may not know is the sense of duty that Ryan had. He wanted to be where the action was and wanted to volunteer for potentially hazardous missions. He felt it was his calling.

Once Ryan was discharged, Ryan's journey took him to Riverside National Cemetery, where he found rewarding employment in the Veteran's Administration. Part of his duties included burial detail and support for the families of the Fallen. During those holidays, including Veterans Day, Independence Day, and of course, Memorial Day, it was all hands on deck. Ryan wanted to be there for those families.

A former Caretaker stated this when asked what is was like to work at Riverside National Cemetery.

"This is a place where you can go to work and know that you made a difference for someone. Where the employees have the honor and privilege to lay Heroes to rest and provide their families with heartfelt service". Ryan felt this every day he came to work...

Though Ryan spent many years serving others at Riverside National Cemetery, he wanted to try something new. Ryan transferred to the VA Loma Linda Healthcare System. Part of his job was repairing the large outside water valves.

In Ryan's last years, he enjoyed a 40th birthday celebration with his mom, dad, brother, and nephew, at the Desert Springs Marriott in Palm Desert. Just last year, Ryan also spent a wonderful vacation on Oahu with Johnny and his family.

Visitation

Pierce Brothers Crestlawn

Mortuary

Cypress Room

11500 Arlington Ave

Riverside, CA 92505

9516891441

September 3, 2022

2:00 pm - 6:00 pm

Graveside Service

Riverside National Cemetery

22495 Van Buren Boulevard

Riverside, CA 92518

September 14, 2022

11:00 am - 11:30 am

"Traveling in the company of those we love is home in motion/" - Leigh Hunt

"Accept your past without regrets, and face your future without fears/" - Paulo Coelho

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.PierceBrosCrestlawn.com for the SPERRY family.