Ryan Johnathan Justen

Ryan J. Justen, age 25, of Rockford, passed away on December 8, 2025. Beloved son of Scott (Margaret) Justen and Cindy (Michael) Koplin. Loving brother to Ashley Mikkelsen-Lueders, Allison (Nicholas) Chmura-Trunk, and Sydney Koplin. Adored grandson of Harold Justen, late Sandra (John) Baumgartner, late Steven Mikkelsen, Mariann Jones, and Dennis (Barbara) Koplin. Loving nephew of Steven (Tracy) Mikkelsen II, Joseph (Sarah) Mikkelsen, James (Jennifer) Mikkelsen, Matthew Jones, as well as many cousins.

Ryan was a resident at Walter Lawson Children’s Home for 15 years, where he gained friends and family alike. He was well-known for his big blue eyes, his wavy auburn hair, and his friendly smile. Ryan spoke volumes without saying a word. He would lend his ear to anyone and be their most trusted confidant. His passion for cars and reading were legendary. If you had the pleasure of being in his presence long enough, a quiet conversation and sharing of secrets was his specialty.

His personality was larger than life, and anyone blessed with the fortune of being in his orbit couldn’t help but love him. Ryan’s bond with his father, Scott, was and still is the embodiment of love and dedication. Ryan and his mother, Cindy, had an inseparable bond and shared a love of books and reading, which brought comfort during his most difficult days. The connection between Ryan and his sister Allison was so strong that when he caught sight of her, even on the phone, his joy would light up the room.

He was only 25 years old at the time of his passing, but he taught many valuable life lessons. Despite his physical limitations, he displayed incredible resilience and determination to appreciate the beauty around him with a smile. Ryan’s laughter was contagious; his smile would ease your pain, and his playful spirit shone brightly in every interaction. Nothing can dim the beauty and strength of the light that was Ryan.

No words can truly describe the love that he exuded, his fiery attitude, or his infinitely beautiful and pure soul. Ryan will be with those he loved in their every step as they continue on in his absence; by memories crafted from laughter, tears wept during hard times, and joy shared between loved ones.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Ryan to Walter Lawson Children’s Home in Love’s Park.

For donations, a check can be made out to Walter Lawson Children’s Home and mailed to the following address:

1820 Walter Lawson Dr., Loves Park, IL 61111.

Electronic donations can be made an be made at https://www.wlch.org/

Funeral Services will be held at Marengo-Union Funeral Home, 505 E Grant Hwy, Marengo, IL 60152, 815-568-8131, Sunday, December 21st, 11:00 am-3:00 pm.