Journey to Heaven Our son, Ryan James was born on June 14, 1978 at the Morden Hospital. He was our first born and a precious gift from God. He weighed 9 lbs.2 oz. and was immediately termed a “heart breaker”. After several days, we were told that Ryan had a congenital heart defect and would require corrective surgery. Ryan underwent his first heart surgery at four months of age. This was to give him time to grow and become strong for his final open heart surgery to be done at age five. At 2 ½ years of age, Ryan was out of time! We flew to Toronto for this delicate surgery and Ryan lived through many weeks of tough recovery. It was successful, and we were on our way home with 100% success. Praise our Lord! In the next few years we were blessed with two more children – Andrea Pearl and Chadwick Ross. Ryan was a very proud big brother. The three children grew up very close as our family experienced several changes in homes and employment. Ryan attended school and Sunday School and at an early age developed a deep love for his Lord and Saviour. Growing up, Ryan never questioned the Bible as the true Word of God! He looked at life and the world around him and clearly saw his God! Ryan was baptized at the age of 19 at the Morden EMMC and became a faithful, active member. Working with youth at church and the Youth Drop in Center, he developed a great love for children. After graduating from Grade 12, Ryan worked as a toner for Decor Cabinets for two years. He then entered training at RCC for Business Administration with an administration major. He successfully completed this in two years and was hired as a Junior Accountant with Krahn and Friesen in Morden. He enjoyed this but realized “I need to work with people.” Back to school – Ryan transferred several courses and began a Bachelor of Science program at University of Manitoba. He then added a certification in Education, specializing in High School Mathematics and Sciences. Ryan graduated and was immediately hired at the Green Valley Collegiate in Grunthal, MB. After one year Ryan decided that he would rather substitute teach which led him to many schools in the Hanover School Division. He loved the students and they adored him. During the summer months, Ryan had opportunities to work alongside others to learn home-building skills. He became proficient in floor laying, painting, finishing work, siding, etc. He really enjoyed this hands-on work. During these years Ryan attended and became heavily involved with the Southland Community Church in Steinbach. He joined a cell group for Bible Study and additional support in his Christian life. Ryan became part of the large College and Career group and developed deep and lasting friendships with countless of his peers. Living so near his sister Andrea and brother-in-law Graydon’s little family, Ryan became much more than an uncle to his nieces, Isabelle and Abigail. He watched them grow as babies to the ages of 4 ½ and 3, babysitting and just caring for them as a second father image. He also came home to Morden frequently and spent ever increasing time with his brother Chad, sister-in-law Amy and his youngest little niece, Madyson. He just had so much love to give. In Ryan’s last three and a half years with us, he grew steadily in his Christian walk. Ever studying further in his devotion to Christ, he gave every area of his life over the Him. When sometimes unsure of major decisions – careers, possible marriage mates and the general will of God in his life, Ryan would spend much time in prayer. He chose to believe that God would lead him always. On Thursday, May 5, 2011 at approximately 6:30 p.m. God led our beloved son Ryan Home. Ryan had just purchased a much anticipated motorcycle from Minnesota, USA. He had just spent a weekend together with his dad to pick up his motorcycle. After the usual importing and safety procedures, Ryan was heading to Niverville to show his motorcycle to family and friends. At an intersection just two miles from Niverville a vehicle failed to stop at a STOP sign and crossed the highway right in front of Ryan. With no possible way of avoiding this obstacle, Ryan and his motorcycle broadsided the Chevy Blazer. In an instant our son made his voyage up and over into Heaven – into the arms of his Blessed Redeemer. HIS FINAL RIDE BECAME HIS GLORY RIDE! He will be sorely missed... As a friend Many many from Morden, Steinbach and beyond   As an uncle We will always love you Uncle Ryan – Isabelle, Abigail, Madyson     As a brother Ryan, you were the Best! You were more than a brother. -        Andrea & Graydon -        Chad & Amy As a son Our hearts simply break at the separation from you here on earth. Our hearts overcome with Joy and Peace at your Blessed Eternity in Heaven! We will never forget what you meant to us and we will surely see you soon. -        Love Mom & Dad. Ryan’s exact words were: “I am ready to go” As a family we ask: Are you? The funeral service for Ryan Letkeman will be held Wednesday, May 11 at 1:00 p.m. at Southland Community Church, Hwy 52 W, Steinbach, with burial at Winkler Cemetery. Viewing will be at Morden E.M.M.C Church on Tuesday, May 10 from 7:00 to 7:30 with devotional at 7:30, and at the church prior to the service.