Ryan J. Commings

The Earth grew a little dimmer on December 24, 2020, when Ryan J. Commings left this world.

Born on June 9, 1980, Ryan was the son of Gary C. Commings and Denise J. Commings, wife of Robert M. Kearney.

Ryan grew up in Spring Township, graduated from Berks Christian School and attended Penn State Berks. Ryan was intelligent, witty and wise beyond his years. He was a quick study, which afforded him many opportunities. He dabbled in IT for a time, working at Avantex and Gateway Computers.

He attended school in Canada and became a certified home inspector, spending a few years working with his father at Pillar to Post. He also worked at the Brass Lantern and the Bistro at 614. His true passions, however, were his love of music and the great outdoors. Ryan's natural culinary skills took him to Telluride, CO, where he worked in some of the finest restaurants, enjoyed great music and film festivals and spent much of his time exploring trails less traveled.

When he came back to Berks County in 2018, Ryan reconnected with family and old friends. He bonded with his beautiful nieces, who adored him, and he forged some new friendships as well. Ryan often lamented that he didn't belong on this earth and couldn't find his purpose, yet he had an uncanny ability to read people. He never judged anyone and was generous to a fault, often giving his last dollar if he thought someone needed help. He never fully realized the gifts God gave him. People, old and young, were drawn to him and often sought his sage advice on matters of life.

Whenever possible, Ryan was hiking or kayaking in search of a quiet refuge from this world. He would often send pictures after reaching a particular spot with the caption, "I'm in my happy place". Ryan, we trust you are finally in your "ultimate" happy place with the One who created you before the foundation of the Earth and sustained you through your 'storied' albeit brief journey on this planet.

Ryan is survived by his sisters: Taylor L. Commings, St Petersburg, FL; Ashley E. Lapp, wife of Quentin, Lancaster, PA; adoring nieces: Vincenza, Penelope and Colette; as well as numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

Ryan is predeceased by his beloved Gammy Florence Ketner Boone and his doting Aunt Deborah L. Ketner.

To Quote a line from Ryan's favorite band: "Wish You Were Here..."

The family extends gratitude to the heroic efforts of the EMTs and the ER Doctors and Nurses at the Reading Hospital who treated Ryan on that fateful day and who extended grace, warmth and kindness to the family. A special thanks to the Neurosurgical team, the ICU nurses, the PACU nurses, and the nurses on T2 who instinctively knew how to give care with compassion knowing Ryan had to face his diagnosis and surgery without the physical support of a family member by his side. He was so grateful to every single health care worker he interacted with during his stay.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held Saturday, August 28, 2021, at 2:30 p.m. at Neag Planetarium, 500 Museum Rd., West Reading, PA 19611. Visitation will be Saturday from 1 to 2:30 p.m. at the Planetarium.

In lieu of flowers and in light of the great need in our community, please, make a donation in Ryan's memory to any of the following: Opportunity House, 430 North 2nd St., Rdg 19601; Hope Rescue Mission, 645 North 6th St., Rdg 19601; Berks Coalition to End Homelessness, 831 Walnut St 19601 or Helping Harvest, 117 Morgan Drive, Rdg 19608. Edward J. Kuhn Funeral Home, Inc., West Reading is in charge of arrangements. Condolences may be expressed at www.kuhnfuneralhomes.com.