Ryan Michael Peterson

Ryan Michael Peterson was born on April 8, 1975, in Emmetsburg, Iowa, to Gary Peterson and Gail Andrews (Fokken). He spent his early years in Iowa before moving to Texas, where he graduated from Lewisville High School. Following graduation, Ryan returned to Iowa and became a proud Iowa State Cyclone, a devotion he showcased with his custom license plate, “RyforCy.”

Ryan pursued his passion for education at Iowa State University. There he earned a Bachelor of Science degree and teaching certificate, marking the beginning of a meaningful career.

Ryan worked as a Special Education teacher, primarily teaching middle school students. He had a gift for connecting with his students, guiding them with patience and dedication. He combined his love for teaching with his adventurous spirit teaching in Rome, Italy, and Ankara, Turkey. He backpacked through Europe and took immense pride in the number of countries he explored. His travels took him to Canada, Egypt, Turkey, England, Wales, Ireland, Scotland, Belgium, Luxembourg, France, Monaco, Spain, Portugal, Italy, Poland, Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Switzerland, Austria, The Netherlands, Grand Cayman, Jamaica, Honduras, Mexico and many Caribbean islands.

Upon returning to the U.S., Ryan taught in Des Moines Public Schools, where he made a lasting impact on his students. He believed in empowering students to overcome learning disabilities, just as he had in his own life.

Later, Ryan moved back to Texas to be closer to his family. He worked security for Live Nation, a job he loved because it gave him unique access to the music and entertainment world. He made many friends in the industry. This allowed him to pursue several entrepreneurial ventures, including selling concert posters and designing T-shirts.

Beyond teaching and traveling, Ryan was a gifted artist. He spent countless hours drawing and producing stunning original works in his studio. He drew inspiration from his favorite musicians, songwriters, artists, performers, historical figures, friends, family, and even himself. His artwork was a true reflection of his passion and talent.

Ryan had a knack for making connections with people. Described as down to earth and easygoing, he could make friends anywhere. He had a love for life's simple joys—he won the Iowa State Fair Egg Rolling contest in 1983. He enjoyed evenings in the hot tub, gazing at the night sky in search of satellites, shooting stars, and the International Space Station.

Ryan is survived by his parents, Gary & Marci Peterson of Phoenix, AZ, and Gail Andrews (Fokken) & Chris Sieber of Lewisville, TX; his siblings, Randy Andrews (Stephanie), Kaitie Moore (Jason), Kyler Peterson, and Tessa Peterson; his beloved niece and nephews, Everleigh Moore, Findlay Andrews, Foster Moore and Ryker Peterson; as well as many loving aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

Ryan’s humor, adventurous spirit, artistic talent, and dedication to helping others will be forever cherished by those who knew and loved him.