"Will miss you Ryan. You are one of the Best"
In loving memory of
Ryan David Perkins
November 8, 1978 - May 15, 2021
Ryan David Perkins, 42, passed away on Saturday, May 15, 2021 in Austin, Texas. Though Ryan's passing was untimely, he left an irreplaceable and loving imprint upon many lives. Ryan was born in Columbia, Missouri to Donald J Perkins, Jr and Kathy Snyder Rickermann on November 8, 1978. Ryan graduated from Fox High School in Arnold, Missouri in 1997. He then attended the University Technical Institute in Glendale Heights, Illinois and graduated in 1998 as the valedictorian of his class. Ryan went on to attend The University of Missouri and received his Bachelor's Degree of Science in Business Administration. In 1999, Ryan worked for ERB Construction as a diesel mechanic and later transitioned to NPK Construction where he enjoyed a successful career as a District Manager.
In 2016, Ryan met the love of his life, Melissa Gibson Perkins and they were married in November 2019. The love they had for each other was unmatched. Ryan was very outgoing and enjoyed life to its fullest. He loved to travel, snowboard and enjoyed all outdoor activities. Ryan was known for his creativity and was constantly working on incredible projects. Whether it was fixing an old car for a friend or building a plant box for his wife, Ryan was always eager to lend a helping hand. Ryan was also a gracious host to his countless friends which earned him the nickname of "Papa Perkins." Ryan had a generous heart to both friends and family and would always go above and beyond to make sure everyone was taken care of very well. He was truly loved by everyone who knew him.
Ryan was preceded in death by his father, Donald J Perkins, Jr. Ryan is survived by his loving wife, Melissa Perkins of Austin; mother, Kathy Rickermann; brother, Rob Rickermann and his wife, Yara; sister, Shaina Gutkencht and her husband, Boomer; grandmother, Sherry Christiansen; loving aunts, Pam Bailey and Janet Musick; uncle, Rick Perkins; nephew, Gavin Rickermann; niece, Paige Sanner; and the Luaders Family. A memorial service for Ryan will be held on Saturday, June 5, 2021, at 1:00 PM at Harrell Funeral Home, 4435 Frontier Trail, Austin, TX 78745. An additional service will be held on Sunday, July 11, 2021, at 5:00 PM at Nine Mile Garden, 9375 Gravois Road, Affton, MO 63123. Family and friends are welcome at both services. In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made in honor of Ryan's life at https://afsp.donordrive.com/campaign/RyanPerkinsMemorialFund
Tributes
"The first child of my sister, first grandson to my mom and dad. The love of all our lives who turned out to be the best big brother. A sweet child and outstanding achiever at school and in his career. The life of the party, would help anyone who needed it. So many friends! So meticulous , funny, caring, and generous. Ryan lives in my heart and I cherish those memories. We love you Ryan. Your living Aunt."