Born January 24, 1933; died August 14, 2008
Born in Rock Creek Ohio, Big Jim prided himself on sharing with everyone he knew that he was a Navy Medic associated with the United States Marine Corp during the Korean War. He was a loving husband to Marilyn (Lovell), devoted father to Diane (Jerry Harvey) and Jim (Linda), and a friend to anyone he crossed paths with. He also adored his grandchildren, Kelly and Mandy, and great-grandchild Lucas. He has a surviving sister Phyllis Ferris and brother Raymond, and leaves behind many wonderful nieces and nephews. He retired from Cummins Engine Company in 1989 and faithfully served as a sub-district manager for the INDOT for several years afterward. He and Marilyn attended the Community Church of Columbus.
He met his wife Marilyn on a blind date in San Diego and never looked back. Their 47 year marriage resulted in their two children who loved his sensitivity, mischievous teasing, and his laughter. He particularly enjoyed his status as a volunteer at Methodist Hospital’s Chronic Pain Rehabilitation Program. He had a way of getting through to people in need and had an infectious ability to comfort others. He was also well loved by his friends at the Charis Center. He was concerned only with seeing other people happy and was very self-effacing. He enjoyed the “War Room” which was nothing more than an excuse to go to Bob Evans Restaurant with his best friends to eat the things he liked to eat and solve the world’s problems.
His lengthy battle with multiple cancers finally wore him out. He never complained over the past ten years and when he was ready to go he slipped out in typical Ryser fashion; a lead, follow, or get out of the way attitude that included being surrounded with people who loved him. He was very proud of his Irish heritage and was well known for singing Irish songs and lullabies at any given moment.
The family wishes to thank Hospice of South Central Indiana and Charis Center in Indianapolis, Indiana. In lieu of flowers the family asks for a kind donation to either of these two facilities. The family also wishes to thank Clarian Health Partners’ staff of fine doctors and nurses as well as everyone at RHI for giving him the extra time to love and be loved. Dr. Robert Petry was and remains a special part of the glue that holds our family together.