David Ryn

David Ryn

October 10, 1942 -- January 16, 2025

Windsor

David (Dave) R. Ryn of Windsor, Colorado, passed away on January 16, 2025 at the Medical Center of the Rockies, at age 82. Dave is survived by his wife of more than 51 years, Elsie Nugent Ryn, and their daughter, Karen Ryn Franz, D.D.S.

Born in Denver, Colorado, he was the third child of Pete and Velma (Applegate) Ryn. The family moved to Medford, Oregon. Dave graduated from Medford High School and the University of Oregon, where he received a B.S. and M.S. in mathematics. He served in the U.S. Army for three years. Dave was an avid tennis player in high school, college, and in the Army.

Post military service, he was employed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in Washington, D.C., where he developed and programmed hydrologic mathematical and statistical computer models. In 1977, Dave and Elsie moved to Fort Collins, CO, where Dave worked for the Department of Agriculture's Computer Center, doing similar work to support the U.S. Forest Service's water resource programs nationwide. Later he joined the National Park Service setting up local area computer networks, overseeing computer purchases, software, and security for the Natural Resources Programs. 

Retiring in 2001, Dave took on his "Dream Job" as a play manager for Mariana Butte Golf Course, in Loveland. Golfing was his passion! Retirement provided time for growing tomatoes, playing many rounds of Sudoku, and road trips with Elsie. 

Beyond his public, professional service, Dave will be remembered for his willingness to help neighborhood students with their math classes! During Karen's years with the F.A.S.T. swim team, he served with the group of parents who provided computer support for swim meets. Dave loved skiing, too. He and Elsie always had family or neighbors join them for ski trips. He was most willing to assist those without computers to have access to programs requiring internet use. 

Dave was predeceased by his parents, Pete and Velma Ryn, sister Doris, and brothers Paul and Otto. In addition to Elsie and Karen, Dave is survived by his sister-in-law, Louise Ryn, plus nieces, nephews and their children, as well as many long-time friends.

A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.