Dena Marie Ryan, of Farmington Hills, a beacon of light and love to all who knew her, departed from this world unexpectedly on Thursday, April 4, 2024, at the tender age of 46. Dena's passing leaves a void impossible to fill in the hearts of her family, friends, and community.

Born into this world as Dena Beers in Grand Rapids on May 16, 1977, Dena embodied qualities that illuminated every space she entered. Genuine, unassuming, and selfless, Dena carried an undeniable warmth that touched the lives of everyone she encountered. Her wit and kindness were as boundless as her love and thoughtfulness. Though she didn't see herself as a leader, she possessed a natural joy that drew people towards her. Dena was the quintessential "pied piper," effortlessly inspiring others to follow her lead with her considerate and caring nature.

Dena's journey began in Lowell, MI, where she graduated from Lowell High School in 1995. She pursued her passion for biology at Michigan Technological University, where she became a cherished member of the Phi Delta Chi sorority, graduating in 1999. After spending a year in Germany with Bill, they returned to Detroit where she worked at DuPont until 2005. Continuing her academic pursuits, Dena earned a second bachelor's degree in clinical laboratory sciences from Eastern Michigan University, eventually finding her calling in the hematology laboratory at the University of Michigan Health System.

In her professional endeavors, Dena's strength and dedication shone brightly. From her beginnings as a laboratory technician to her role in IT with the Media Lab and then Pathology Informatics as a business analyst, she made invaluable contributions and left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of working alongside her.

Dena's most cherished roles were those of mother and wife.  She married William P. Ryan, III, on June 17, 2000, at the home of her parents in Lowell, Michigan. On June 14, 2010, she and Bill welcomed their first child, William (Liam) Patrick Ryan IV, into the world, followed by the arrival of Hannah Marie Ryan on February 17, 2013. Dena's love and devotion to her family was limitless. She poured her heart and soul into nurturing her children and supporting her husband, creating a home filled with love, laughter, and endless memories. This nurturing and support ultimately extended to a five family "pod" that shared daily life.

Beyond her professional and familial duties, Dena remained deeply involved in her community. As a Treasurer of Lanigan Elementary PTA and a Council member for East Middle School PTSA, she tirelessly devoted herself to enhancing the educational experiences of children. Dena's creativity and thoughtfulness was ever apparent, whether she was crafting annual photo books or creating storyboards for special events.

Dena's adventurous spirit was evident in her love for travel, camping, hiking, and skiing, especially when shared with Bill, Liam, Hannah, and her chosen extended family. Her zest for life and infectious enthusiasm left an imprint on all who journeyed alongside her.

Dena's passing leaves a void that can never be filled, but her memory will forever be cherished by those who were fortunate enough to know her. In her honor, let us strive to embody her kindness, selflessness, and unwavering love for life.

Surviving are her beloved husband of nearly 24 years, Bill; cherished children, Liam (age 13) and Hannah (age 11); loving parents, Mel and Linda Beers; dear sister, Mindi (Eric) Kropf; nephew, Dominic Beers; niece, Chloe Jones; father and mother-in-law, Bill and Marilyn Ryan; brother-in-law, Joe (Heather) Ryan; sisters-in-law, Anita (Tim) Ramstack and Alicia (Mark) Ramstack; numerous additional nieces and nephews; extended families of Christina and Aaron Brunke, Tonya and Chuck Leckenby, Nicole Rottet, and Brandi Cardone; treasured friends, Anna Denton, Chrys Thaler, Sarah Larson, Brian Phillips, Karen and Joe Yamin, and Pam and Jeff Wheeler; as well as a multitude of friends and colleagues who were touched by her grace and compassion.

A celebration of Dena's life will be held at Farmington Hills Manor on May 19, 2024, from 1-4 pm, where all who were touched by her presence are invited to gather and honor her beautiful time here with us.  (R.S.V.P. to denamryan.rsvp@gmail.com ). All are welcome, including children.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to:

Project H.O.P.E. (U of M Migraine Research Project) to help those who share her struggle,

or the Annual Fund for Michigan Medicine at the University of Michigan.

Though she may be gone from our sight, Dena's spirit will continue to shine brightly in our hearts forevermore.

"When our time on earth is done,

money or material things will not matter.

But the love, time and kindness we've given others

will shine and live on forever."

~Author unknown

Rest in peace, dear Dena. You will be profoundly missed, but your amazing love and kindness will live on eternally.