Ryan Nile Zayicek

Beloved son, brother, and uncle Ryan Nile Zayicek of Tampa, Florida, passed away on June 16, 2025 at the age of 47. Ryan was born on November 18th, 1977 in Naval Air Station Lemoore, California, to his mother Anne Shipley Eggers and his father James Stanley Zayicek.

After high school, Ryan followed his brother’s footsteps by serving his country in the United States Air Force from March 1999 to March 2008, where he earned the rank of Staff Sergeant. Following the attacks of September 11th, 2001, Ryan was called to serve in the Global War on Terror. He supported Operation Iraqi Freedom in Ahmad al-Jaber Air Base, Kuwait, and Operation Enduring Freedom in Bagram, Afghanistan. In Manta, Ecuador, he played a vital role in a joint military partnership for the Ecuadorian Air Force. Ryan’s leadership, dedication, and service was recognized with the Air Force Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, and Afghanistan Campaign Medal. After his time in the Air Force, he continued serving his country as a civilian intelligence analyst working at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, finishing his career as a Geospatial Intelligence Analyst in Tampa, Florida.

Known for his quick wit, infectious laugh and deep dedication to those he served with, Ryan left a mark on every life he touched. He always knew how to drop a funny movie quote mid conversation with astute execution. Spending time with his friends, watching movies, following his favorite sports teams, and spending time outdoors - especially near bodies of water - brought him immense joy. Above all else, family was Ryan’s number one priority in life. He adored every second he spent with his nieces and nephews. His youthful spirit and warm personality led to him lovingly being referred to as the “fun uncle”.

Ryan was predeceased by his father James Zayicek and is survived by his mother Anne Eggers, his sister Robin (Tim) Clesen, brother Pat (Christina) Zayicek, brother Bryan (Jennifer) Zayicek, sister Ashley (Spencer) Hopkins, sister Kyleigh (Ken) Wiedemann, sister Jaimee Zayicek, four nephews (Tyler, Cody, Michael, and Zachary), and six nieces (Emily, Katie, Juniper, Abbey, Emma, and Paxton).

Ryan will be missed deeply by those who knew him and he will be remembered with respect and gratitude for the life he lived and the service he gave to his country.

Services will be held on Monday, June 24th at 6pm at Blount and Curry 3207 W Bearss Ave Tampa, FL 33618. Visitation will be gin one hour prior starting at 5pm.

The family is currently making plans for the funeral and reception at the National Cemetery at Jacksonville. Further details will be shared soon.

Memorial contributions may be made to Wounded Warriors by visiting Wounded Warrior Project - Donate

Thank you to everyone for your thoughts and prayers for Ryan and his family!