Kenneth Edward Van Ryn

Kenneth Edward Van Ryn, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and public servant, passed away peacefully on April 22, 2025. Ken was born in Fort Wayne on October 21, 1930 to Edna (née Kuhl) and Matthew Van Ryn.

After graduating from Central High School in Fort Wayne, Ken proudly served his country in the U.S. Air Force before embarking on a long and decorated career in law enforcement and criminal justice. He spent 27 years with the Fort Wayne Police Department, eventually being promoted to Chief of Police, serving until 1987. After retiring from the police department, he continued to serve the people of Fort Wayne in the Public Defender’s Office for three years, followed by another 23 years supporting the Prosecutor’s Office.

Ken was a man of faith, having been a devoted member of Concordia Lutheran Church for over 60 years. He was also an avid sports fan and a strong supporter of youth sports. Ken spent 55 years volunteering with the Police Athletic League (PAL), including 30 years of service as President. He cultivated deep relationships with local business leaders and tirelessly led fundraising efforts so that local youth could have opportunities to play football and basketball.

When he wasn’t at the ball diamond watching a game, Ken enjoyed spending his leisure time at his cottage on Pretty Lake, cooking, relaxing, and teaching his grandsons how to fish. For the past several years, he enjoyed daily breakfasts with a close group of friends at Mister Coney.

Ken is survived by his high school sweetheart and devoted wife of 73 years, Phyllis (née Root) Van Ryn; his two children, James and Jayne (Rick) Wynn; his four grandsons, Matthew (Kristy) Wynn, Brandon (Karah) Wynn, Caleb (Hännah) Wynn, and Drew (Cree) Wynn; and his six great-grandchildren, Elena, Isabella, Delilah, Ezra, Lucy, and Olive; and younger brother, Joel (Wilma) Van Ryn. He was preceded in death by his daughter-in-law, Sally Van Ryn. They will all miss him dearly and will carry forward his legacy of service, dedication to the community, love for life, and, most importantly, his commitment to church and family.

In celebration of Ken’s remarkable life, Funeral Services is April 29, 2025 at 11 AM at Concordia Lutheran Church, 4245 Lake Avenue, Fort Wayne with visitation one hour prior. Friends and family will also be received 4-7 PM, April 28 at D.O. McComb & Sons Funeral Home - Pine Valley, 1320 East Dupont Road, Fort Wayne. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Concordia Lutheran Church.