Ryan Jay Bielke

On July 1, 1995, a blonde-haired, green-eyed angel was born to Lance and Peggy Bielke. Two years later, he became a big brother to Gregory. From Marion, the family moved to New Braunfels in 2007. Ryan graduated from New Braunfels Canyon High School in 2013. He graduated from Texas State University majoring in Kinesiology. Prior to his illness, he was on the path to complete a Doctorate of Physical Therapy in June of 2019 from South College in Tennessee.

Ryan completed multiple half-marathons, half-iron man, and three Texas Water Safaris. He found great joy on the riverbanks of the Guadalupe River fly-fishing, kayaking, rock climbing, tying flies, and hiking. He was a jack of all trades from woodworking, crocheting, kneeboarding and hunting. Even when he was training and pushing his own body to its limit, Ryan made time to encourage others. All while doing this, he fell in love with Marina Nolen. Marina felt his love through his sweetness, contagious smile, and his laughter that would fill the room. She continued to love and support him throughout his illness.

In February 2019, Ryan was diagnosed with cholangiocarcinoma. No one was surprised about his demeanor as he never stopped fighting or questioned God’s plan. Ryan was fortunate to attend a Reel Recovery fly fishing weekend event for cancer patients. Team Ryan made an impressive showing at the Comal County Relay for Life when they raised over $13,000 in just 5 days. Ryan was awarded Rookie of the Year.

Ryan Jay Bielke, 23, of New Braunfels, Texas went to be with the Lord on May 5, 2019. Ryan is survived by his parents, Lance and Peggy Bielke; brother, Gregory Bielke; girlfriend, Marina Nolen; grandmothers, Betty Jiral and Lorene Bielke; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. Ryan was preceded in death by his grandfathers, Raymond Benedict Jiral and Lee Jay Bielke. Ryan will always be remembered by his family and friends for his optimistic nature, love of life, and, most of all, his smiling face. The family is asking for everyone to PAY IT FORWARD and remember Ryan by doing random acts of kindness. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to Reel Recovery at www.reelrecovery.org or to the Wade Busby Memorial, PO Box 736, Marion, TX 78124.

Visitation will be held at St. Paul Lutheran Church, New Braunfels, Texas on Thursday, May 9 from 4-8 pm. Services will be held at St. Paul Lutheran Church on Friday, May 10 at 1 pm. Burial will follow at the Redeemer United Church of Christ Cemetery in Zuehl, Texas.

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 2 Timothy 4:7