We are broken hearted by the passing of 41-year-old Ryan Michael Benedict: Big R, our “Gentle Giant” on Saturday, November 4 th in Meridian, Idaho. We will forever miss his happy, booming voice, his fun-loving personality, his amazing Karaoke performances and (thanks to his innate showmanship) his ability to entertain us all with his superb yoyo skills. Ryan knew no strangers and was a master at engaging any and everyone in conversation. He was a warm-hearted, talented man who excelled at making everyone he met feel welcome and included.
At 6 foot 5, Ryan towered over almost everyone in the room and if that room was dark, his smile was all that was needed to brighten it up. He was impossible to miss but will now be firmly ensconced forever in our hearts.
Ryan is survived by his wife, Amanda, his daughter, Emma, grandson, Monroe, parents, Don and Sue and numerous friends.
We quote Mahatma Gandhi:
There are no goodbyes for us.
Wherever you are, you will be in our hearts.