The communities of Livonia, Linden, Flint, and Detroit, Michigan are grieving the untimely death of Brendan Ryan, a beloved resident, hockey coach, sales manager, and a well-respected figure in his professional and personal circles. Brendan Ryan, who was only in his thirties, passed away unexpectedly in a tragic accident, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, warmth, and camaraderie. His death has sent shockwaves through the tight-knit communities of which he was such a vital part, especially those who knew him through his involvement in the world of hockey, business, and beyond.
Brendan was not just another member of the community; he was a pillar. His roles as Head Men’s Hockey Coach at Saginaw Valley State University and Sales Manager at Cardinal Staffing Services in Flint highlighted his multifaceted talents and dedication to helping others. Whether it was guiding young athletes on the ice, developing business relationships, or simply being a friend, Brendan had a profound impact on everyone he met.
His sudden passing was announced by his family on social media on Thursday, October 24, 2024. In a heartfelt post, his brother, Matt Ryan, expressed the depth of the family’s loss. “To all family and friends of Brendan Ryan, we are saddened to inform you of the passing of my brother, son of Lynne Standley and Jimmy Ryan, and an incredible friend, Brendan. He was loved by everyone in his community, and to say he will be missed is a huge understatement.” The post reverberated across the networks of friends, family, colleagues, and athletes, with messages of shock and condolences pouring in. Brendan was known for his kind-hearted nature, and his loss has left a significant void in the lives of all who knew him.
Who Was Brendan Ryan?
Brendan Ryan’s roots ran deep in Michigan. He was a native of Livonia, Michigan, and a graduate of Livonia Churchill High School, where his love for hockey and his leadership qualities began to take shape. His passion for sports was something that would go on to define much of his career and life. After high school, he attended Schoolcraft College and later graduated from Grand Valley State University, where he further honed his leadership abilities and became known for his infectious enthusiasm for life.
Beyond his academic and professional accomplishments, Brendan was a multi-talented individual. He was not just an accomplished hockey coach, but also a drummer, a dancer, and someone who was known for lighting up any room he entered. His ability to make friends and form lasting bonds with people was unmatched. Whether at a hockey rink, a business meeting, or a social gathering, Brendan’s energy, humor, and sincerity stood out. His genuine nature made him someone that people naturally gravitated towards, and it’s clear that Brendan lived his life with passion and joy.
As a hockey coach, Brendan’s reputation was well-established. He served as the Head Men’s Hockey Coach at Saginaw Valley State University, where he mentored young athletes, helping them not just improve their game but also become better individuals off the ice. His coaching style was one that emphasized discipline, teamwork, and personal growth, and he inspired his players to be leaders, not just in sports, but in all aspects of life.
Before joining Cardinal Staffing Services in Flint as a Sales Manager, Brendan held other significant roles, including as a Corporate Sales Representative at the USA Hockey National Team Development Program. His ability to connect with people, build relationships, and strategize for success made him a valuable asset in every professional role he took on.
Brendan joined Cardinal Staffing in early 2024 and quickly made an impact with his strong work ethic, interpersonal skills, and ability to bring people together. Colleagues at Cardinal Staffing remember Brendan as a dedicated and passionate leader who put his heart into everything he did. His ability to develop strong professional relationships earned him respect across the board, and he was admired for his drive to help both clients and team members succeed.
One of his closest friends recalled, “Brendan was someone who made you feel like you were the most important person in the room. Whether you knew him for years or met him just once, he made an impression that you would never forget. He had a way of making everyone feel included, seen, and valued.” This reflection of his character and personal values made Brendan Ryan not just a coach or a manager but a mentor, friend, and confidante to many.
Brendan Ryan’s Role in the Hockey Community
Brendan’s involvement in the hockey world was more than just a profession; it was a calling. Hockey was a lifelong passion for Brendan, and through coaching, he channeled that passion into shaping the lives of countless young athletes. His coaching career at Saginaw Valley State University was marked by several achievements, both on and off the ice. He was known for pushing his players to achieve their best, not just in terms of performance, but also in how they carried themselves as individuals.
Brendan’s coaching philosophy was centered around hard work, perseverance, and respect for the game. His players remember him not just as a coach, but as a role model. “Coach Ryan was always more than just a coach to us. He cared about our lives, our studies, our future beyond hockey. He taught us how to win with grace and how to learn from our losses,” said one former player, reflecting on the positive impact Brendan had on his team.
His legacy in the hockey community extends beyond his coaching position. His time with the USA Hockey National Team Development Program further solidified his reputation as a coach who understood the game at a deep level, and who had a unique ability to inspire those around him.
The Tragic Accident and Community Mourning
The news of Brendan Ryan’s passing came in the wake of a tragic accident in Flint, Michigan. On October 22, 2024, at around 9:35 a.m., Brendan was involved in a motor vehicle collision that ultimately claimed his life. The accident, which occurred on Woodlawn Park Drive near Brookwood Drive, involved a collision between two vehicles. Emergency personnel responded to the scene swiftly, closing a portion of the road as they worked to clear the debris and attend to the injured. Brendan, tragically, succumbed to his injuries at the scene. While the specific details surrounding the accident remain under investigation, the sudden and devastating nature of his death has left his loved ones and the broader community grappling with grief.
The communities of Linden, Livonia, Flint, and Detroit have rallied together in the wake of Brendan’s passing, offering support to his family and expressing their condolences. Friends, colleagues, and former players have shared stories of Brendan’s impact on their lives, and the overwhelming consensus is that he was a man who lived his life fully and with love for everyone around him.
In a heartfelt post, Brendan’s brother Matt wrote on Facebook, “You were the best brother I could ever ask for. We love you, Brendan.” The post goes on to detail plans for a memorial and celebration of Brendan’s life, which will take place at a later date. The family has expressed their appreciation for the outpouring of love and support they have received during this incredibly difficult time. A Facebook event is expected to be created once details of the memorial are confirmed.
A Life Remembered and Funeral Arrangements
As the community prepares to bid farewell to Brendan Ryan, his family is working on arranging funeral and memorial services that will reflect his vibrant life and the profound impact he had on so many. Though funeral arrangements are still being finalized, those closest to Brendan are focusing on celebrating his life rather than dwelling on the tragic circumstances of his death.
Plans for a memorial celebration of life are expected to take place in both Livonia and Flint, with friends, family, colleagues, and members of the hockey community all coming together to honor Brendan’s memory. His family has requested privacy during this time, but they are grateful for the support that continues to pour in.
A Legacy of Friendship, Leadership, and Love
Brendan Ryan’s death has left an indelible mark on those who were fortunate enough to know him. His ability to connect with others, whether through his work, his coaching, or his personal life, was truly remarkable. He was a man who embodied leadership, friendship, and a zest for life. His absence will be felt deeply in the lives of his family, friends, colleagues, and athletes, but his legacy will continue to live on through the countless lives he touched.
In Brendan’s honor, his family and friends are encouraging those who knew him to carry forward the values he embodied—kindness, enthusiasm, and an unwavering commitment to bettering the lives of others. Though his time on earth was tragically cut short, Brendan Ryan leaves behind a powerful example of how to live a life filled with purpose, joy, and love.
Brendan Ryan’s obituary and funeral arrangements will be released by the family in the coming days. The community remains united in mourning the loss of a beloved coach, brother, friend, and leader.
