Nancy L. Ryan

     Nancy Louise Ortman Ryan was born on February 22, 1932, in Omaha, Nebraska, daughter of Charles and Ruth (Vest) Ortman and sister of Chuck and Tom Ortman.

     Nancy attended Duchesne Academy of the Sacred Heart and Rosary College, where she flourished academically, receiving both her high school and college degree from Duchesne.

     In 1954, following a remarkable and unforgettable 3-month journey to Europe alongside her lifelong friend and cousin, Madeleine Ortman Begley, Nancy met the love of her life, Jerry Ryan. Their wedding marked the beginning of a beautiful union that would span an impressive 58 years. Together, they experienced the joys and challenges of life, blessed with the gift of raising six children. Nancy was a loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.

     Nancy and Jerry were fortunate to create cherished memories with lifelong friends, embarking on countless adventures to Lake Okoboji. These bonds led them to initiate a tradition known as "Winter Madness" at the Lake with potluck dinners and mischievous escapades. This annual gathering became a beloved occasion, filled with laughter and unforgettable memories.

During her time at St. Margaret Mary, Nancy's faith flourished under the guidance of Monsignor Peter Dunne, who inspired her to become more actively involved at the parish. Responding to this calling, she embarked on a journey of faith through many ministries which included, a charismatic prayer group, Spiritual Mom for the Institute of Priestly Formation at Creighton University, RCIA and a devoted volunteer for Spirit Catholic Radio-Omaha. She was active in both Legion of Mary and Children of Mary

     One of Nancy’s most cherished ministries was being a Eucharistic minister where she selflessly extended her love and care to the elderly, sick and those in need. Her devotion to the Word of God was evident in her role as a lector, faithfully proclaiming the scriptures with utmost reverence. She was known for all her readings of scripture, in particular her annual reading at the Easter Vigil Mass.

     Nancy's unwavering faith and profound love for Christ formed the bedrock of her existence, and she became a steadfast teacher, guiding those around her to place their trust in the Lord. Her life exemplified the profound belief that faith is not merely a personal journey but a gift to be shared with others.

     Preceded in death by her husband, James G “Jerry” Ryan; her son, Jerry Ryan; and her brother, Tom Ortman. Nancy is survived by her loving children, Maureen (Rodger) Dolson, John (Teresa) Ryan, Anne (Brian) Higgins, Mary Ryan, Dan (Karen) Ryan; 17 grandchildren, Kim (Mindy) Ryan, Joe (Sammy) Gasnick, Sarah Gasnick, Tom (Justin) Gasnick, Robert Gasnick, Shannon (Michael) Sands, Tricia (James) Cristiano, Beth (Cody) Powers, Jacquie (Luke) Coenen, Hannah (AJ) Koch, Jake Ryan, John (Sarah) Higgins, Kerry Higgins, James Higgins, Lexie Ryan, Gibby Ryan, and Aidan Ryan; 8 great-grandchildren, Chloe Behrens, Dylan Ryan, Jadelyn Gasnick, Lucy Sands, Kate Sands, Annabelle Sands, Leo Powers, and Teddy Coenen; brother, Chuck (Jeanne) Ortman; sister-in-law, Margaret (Maggie) Ortman; and nieces and nephews

VISITATION: Monday, May 29th, beginning at 4pm at St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church, with a WAKE SERVICE at 6pm.

MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL: Tuesday, May 30, at St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church, at 10am. 

Interment, Resurrection Cemetery.

MEMORIALS to Duchesne Academy, St. Margaret Mary or the Jerry & Nancy Ryan Family Education Fund c/o Holy Name.

JOHN A. GENTLEMAN MORTUARIES AND CREMATORY

1010 North 72 Street 

402-391-1664 

www.johnagentleman.com