Ryan J. Martin

Ryan John Martin, 43, of rural Bucyrus, died of natural causes on Sunday, January 29, 2023 at his home.

He was born January 21, 1980 in Bucyrus to John F. and Patty L. (Wright) Martin. Ryan was a 1998 graduate of Col. Crawford High School where he was active in FFA, 4-H and played football and baseball. He studied at Mount Vernon Nazarene College and later completed his associate’s degree in electrical engineering technology from Marion Technical College.

From a young age, and as the oldest Martin child, Ryan learned the ways of the farm life. It was destined for him. He started driving a tractor by age 6 and never stopped. Alongside his father and younger brother, Ryan was a huge part of the farm. Their side-by-side work has given so many cherished memories of road trips together to the Amish Country, selling hay and bringing back the best Amish food to share with his family.

Although there were challenges and pain throughout Ryan’s life, he ultimately defeated them with his determination, and the constant love, prayers and patience of his mom and family. His newfound love for life brought so much happiness to his entire family. Ryan was a lover of his life, of music, of the outdoors, and especially, his family. He loved spending time with his nieces and nephews. Most of all, giving them tractor rides. He was the protector of his sisters and best friend to his brother.

The passion he had for life made Ryan adventurous and thrill-seeking. He enjoyed snowmobile trips to the U.P. in Michigan with his dad and brother, as well as long days spent on his boat at Lake Erie, and even a newfound interest in motorcycle riding. Ryan loved music and never turned down a concert or music festival, even attending Rock on the Range and Woodstock ’99. Ryan loved to be active; from working out, to swimming laps, and shooting hoops at the YMCA.

Ryan’s life – his happiness, his easy and free spirit, his beautiful constant smile, his laugh, his story – has left an impact on everyone. Ryan’s family and his close friends will miss him dearly, and he has a special girl named Livia Charlize Grove who forever holds a special piece of him. He also spent time in recent months with Rachael who he loved. In addition to his mom and dad, Ryan is survived by maternal grandmother, Jean Wright; paternal grandfather, Charles Martin; siblings, Britten (Tessa) Martin, Shelby Martin and Bethany (Kyle) Rall; nieces and nephews, Sarah and Adam Martin, Rylan, Emery and Eviana Brodbeck and Emmett and Forrest Rall; as well as many aunts, uncles, and extended family members.

He was preceded in death by maternal grandfather, Ralph Wright; paternal grandmother, Jannetta Martin and two very close cousins, Aaron Miller and Westen “Wes” Ferris.

All services for Ryan will take place on Saturday, February 4 at Wise Funeral Service, 129 W. Warren St., Bucyrus, Ohio. Calling hours will be held from 10 – 12:55 pm and his funeral will begin at 1:00 pm with Pastor Ray LaSalle officiating. He will be laid to rest in Brokensword Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, friends are encouraged to consider a donation to Bucyrus Nazarene Church or a charity of the donor’s choice. These gifts will be accepted through the funeral home and expressions of sympathy are encouraged to be shared on his tribute page.