Obituary

Ryan James DeNichols passed away peacefully at the age of 31 on Wednesday June 9th in his home in Charlotte, NC.

Ryan grew up in Naperville, IL surrounded by great neighbors who grew into lifelong friends. He was a neighborhood staple, ever the participant in all sports and games. Ryan's favorites were the two he excelled in most: basketball and football. He was named a starter for the Varsity football team both his Junior and Senior year. For college, he attended and graduated from the University of Kentucky, where he witnessed a National Championship in Lexington his senior year. Ryan's journey continued to Chicago, TX, FL, and finally to the Carolinas. He brought his benevolent energy wherever he went, while meeting and influencing so many people along the way. Ryan was a true presence in any room he entered. His humor, smile, and laughter were infectious. As a successful and inspirational marketer, Ryan's true passion lied in connecting people with products. Ryan was able to excel in his most recent role as a business development manager and brought a creative approach that was highly respected amongst his peers.

Ryan is survived by a family that he loved so dearly: his parents William and Patricia DeNichols and his older siblings Kaitlyn DeNichols and Kevin DeNichols (Haley). Ryan also left behind the rock in his life, his loving and supportive girlfriend, Kelly Hughes.

Please send prayers, thoughts, and love to those of us who are so proud to carry on Ryan's legacy.

We love you Ryan – you are "Simply the best!"