Ryan George Patrick Adams

Ryan George Patrick Adams, 15, of Waukesha, passed away Monday, February 20th, 2017.

Ryan had a magnetic, sunny personality, which naturally drew others into his orbit. He loved school, where countless wonderful teachers, student aides, and classmates encouraged and loved him. He benefited from the steadfast encouragement and compassion of Mary Helen Thomas, Ryan’s special education teacher at Heyer Elementary, and Peg Longley, Ryan’s personal care assistant.

Ryan always enjoyed music—given the opportunity, it was common for loved ones to serenade him. His mother Linda always kept music playing for him, including on the occasions he was admitted to Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin. His room quickly became a floor favorite for staff, singing along to the tunes of James Taylor as they took care of him.

Though Ryan was nonverbal, he spoke to many. He had a challenging journey in life made rich by the comforting love of his mother, family, doctors, and nurses; the family has special gratitude for Dr. John Humphrey, Reverend Dr. Dennis Saran, Dr. Mary Donovan, and all the Children’s Hospital doctors, nurses and respiratory therapists who oversaw Ryan’s medical care over the years.

Ryan will be remembered for his sweet smile, contagious laugh and the unconditional love he gave to all he met.

Ryan is survived by his mother Linda Adams, his father George Adams, his sister Emily Jansen, his grandfather Lambert Sutkiewicz, his aunt Tammy Ernst, and many loving aunts, uncles and extended family members. He was preceded in death by his twin sister Grace Jeannette Faith Adams, his grandmother Jeannette Sutkiewicz, and his cousin Barry Ernst Jr.

Visitation will be at Krause Funeral Home, 21600 West Capitol Drive, Brookfield, Wisconsin, on Friday, February 24, 2017 from 4:00 PM – 6:45 PM. Celebration of Life at 7:00 PM. Private burial at St. Paul’s Catholic Cemetery.

“Just because I do not talk, don’t assume that I have nothing to say.

And just because I do not move so well, don’t assume that I can’t get there.

Find me, reach me and encourage.” – Anonymous