Byron "Rusty" Ryan

79-year-old Byron "Rusty" Ryan of Paducah passed away peacefully September 16th at Baptist Health, with friends and family close by his side.

Rusty was preceded in death by his Mom, Elizabeth Rogers; Dad, Willard Ryan; Daughter, Tammy Ryan; and Son, Tony Ryan.

Rusty is survived by his Son, Josh Ryan; Two granddaughters, Sidney Long and Charity Blanton (Arlen Blanton); Sister, Vivian Reed; Nephew Michael Reed (Kathy Reed).

Rusty was born on February 27, 1943, though he often celebrated his birthday on February 29th when Leap Years came around.

Following high school, Rusty joined the US Army. He served as a paratrooper in the 101st Airborne Division out of Ft. Campbell and was honorably discharged in September 1968. That same year, Rusty began working as an operator at Union Carbide- commonly known as USEC. He retired in 1997.

Rusty was an extremely talented woodworker with a wild side. He was as contemplative as he was rowdy and as stubborn as they come. On any given day, he could be watching a meteor shower, throwing boomerangs in a parking lot, riding his motorcycle, trekking through the woods, or getting into trouble at his favorite bar. He loved drinking beer, playing pool, listening to blues, and spending time with his friends.

Rusty was truly one-of-a-kind and will be sorely missed by friends and family. He's left us all with countless good stories to tell.

In lieu of a funeral service, friends and family will gather to celebrate Rusty's life at a later date (tbd).

Following the celebration, Rusty's best friend and riding buddy of over 40 years, Joe Gorline, will take Rusty's remains on one final motorcycle ride.

As Rusty would so often say upon departure, "Peace and Love."