Ryan Troy Cunningham, 22

RYAN TROY CUNNINGHAM, age 22 of Waterville, passed away at his apartment in Maple Grove on Wednesday, November 27, 2019.

 Born in Burnsville on May 9, 1997, Ryan was the son of Randy and Shirley (Odegaard) Cunningham.  After graduating from New Prague High School, Ryan attended Iowa State University where he studied chemical engineering and mathematics.  Ryan loved Scouting, had attained the rank of Eagle Scout, and was proud to be a Vigil Member of Order of the Arrow.  He attended and staffed Grey Wolf NYLT (National Youth Leadership Training).  Ryan loved animals and the outdoors, enjoyed playing board games, and was the unofficial "social director" for many of his friends' gatherings.  He was an avid volunteer for many different efforts and loved engaging in politics.  A personal and professional mentor for many, he was a great role model throughout his life.  His infectious smile will be missed.  Ryan will also be remembered as a young man committed to equality for all individuals - regardless of age, race, disability, or sexual orientation - his commitment to quality lives for all people was critical to the person he was.  Most recently, Ryan was working as a Process Development Engineer Intern with Boston Scientific in the Twin Cities.

 Ryan is survived by his parents, Randy and Shirley Cunningham of Waterville; his paternal grandfather, Jim Cunningham of Le Center; numerous aunts; uncles; cousins; and his dog, Bandit.  He was preceded in death by a brother in infancy, Casper Cunningham; his paternal grandmother, Janice Cunningham; and his maternal grandparents, Norman and Deloris Odegaard.

 A celebration of Ryan's life will be held in the spring of 2020.  Specifics will be announced at a later date.  In lieu of flowers or gifts, memorial donations may be directed to Ryan's family and will be disbursed to either the National Parks Foundation or to various suicide prevention organizations.  Dennis Funeral Homes in Waterville is handling the arrangements.  dennisfuneralhomes.com