MONONA - With broken hearts, we are saddened to announce the unexpected passing of Ryan Thomas Celley of Monona, Wis., on Sunday, February 2, 2025, at the age of 44. Born at St. Mary’s Hospital in Madison, Wis., on August 2, 1980, Ryan was the son of Renee and Tom Celley.

He graduated from Monona Grove High School in 1998 and has been a long-time employee at Wisconsin Bedding in Monona.

Ryan’s pride and joy were his girls, Gabby and Eva, and helping them mature into strong, independent, smart and caring human beings. He loved them beyond measure. He also loved watching their years of softball games and musical performances. He even coached one season when the team was in need. He was so proud of his girls and their accomplishments.

Knowledgeable about so many topics and born with a skilled discussion style, Ryan’s family thought he was destined to be a lawyer. He loved to debate. He was also a master chef. His self-taught culinary skills were exceptional. He loved to experiment with cooking, grilling and seasonings. Ryan loved the outdoors and fishing and found a calmness in nature. He was passionate about sumo wrestling and knew the wrestlers by name. He also enjoyed watching all Wisconsin sports.

Ryan showed a special kindness toward animals. He loved his own pets growing up and found great happiness in playing with and helping care for Emma’s dogs, Paczki and Pickles.

Ryan was a helper. When you needed something, you knew you could call on him. If you had a project - literally of any kind - he would learn how to tackle it and get it done with you or for you. There was nothing that he couldn’t fix. He took great satisfaction in being able to help his mom and Emma with their homes - always willing to share how he completed those projects.

Ryan is survived by his daughters, Gabby Celley (Platteville and Waterloo) and Eva Celley (Monona and Waterloo); mother, Renee (Moran) Celley, Monona; dad, Tom Celley (Sharon), Deerfield; brother, Tony Celley (Martha), Michigan; sister, Lindsay DeMoss (Matt), Clayton, Ill.; grandmother, Lynn Celley (Madison); former wife, Susan Molitor, (Waterloo); best friend, Emma Patton (Monona); close friend, Jesse Frank; and aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. Preceding him in death were his grandparents, James and Ruth Moran, and Lorran Celley; and his special dog, Paczki.

A private visitation will be held at Ryan’s request. A celebration of his life is being planned for this summer. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to NAMI Dane County (namidanecounty.org).

The Celley family would like to thank everyone who has shared support, kindness, prayers and stories about Ryan over the past few days. We ask that you hold your loved ones in your arms and hearts, especially those who struggle. Always remind family and friends that there is no shame in seeking help for emotional health and well-being.

From your family and friends: Ryan, you did not fail us, and you are loved more than you realized. We hope you have found the peace, love and strength you shared with so many.

“Dad, you are my best friend, hero and safe space.”~ Eva

“Dad, we were always so proud of you and your courage, compassion, and strength. We admired everything about you and will continue to do so. You have never failed us or disappointed us. We love you forever.” ~Gabby and Eva

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420

Ryan Thomas Celley

August 02, 1980 - February 02, 2025

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