After a long, hard fought battle with cancer, 36 year old Ryan Kelly passed away on January 20^th at MD Anderson in Houston, TX. 

Ryan was a Chicago native and resident who loved music, travel, theater, the Packers, Cubs, and most of all, his cat and companion, Delilah.  In Ryan’s short time, he traveled the world extensively, touring numerous countries in Europe, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Chile, Costa Rica, and Nicaragua.  He was a musician, Black Crowes enthusiast, photographer, Poetry Bordello member, and tutor of at risk inner city youth.  He graduated Western Illinois University with a major in History, and ultimately found his home in the world of IT as he excelled in new technology.  

During Ryan’s multiyear battle with Melanoma, he never gave up hope, believed he would recover and live a long life, and fought to the very end. His last moments were surrounded by family (Rachael, Sarah, Mother, Father, Andres, & Jeff), listening to some of his favorite music from the Black Crowes, The Beatles, and U2,  while those around him shared some of their fondest memories of Ryan.  

A tribute to Ryan’s life and battle will be held at the Chopin Theater, at 2:00pm on Saturday, February 20^th, followed by a short reception.   Thank you to all of you who sent Ryan so many wonderful messages, cards, gifts. Ryan truly appreciated all of your support and it helped him to stay optimistic in reaching his goals. His strength and optimism is something we will never forget.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Melanoma Research Foundation.