Ryan Joseph Johanningmeier

Ryan Johanningmeier passed away unexpectedly on Monday, March 9, 2015. He was 38 years old. Ryan was born in Fort Collins, the son of William (B.J.) Johanningmeier and Sandy Curfman. He is survived by his mother, father, stepfather Jim Curfman and stepmother Deborah Johanningmeier, stepsister Nichole Graham, three step grandparents, numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by both maternal and paternal grandparents. Ryan attended school in Lafayette, CO, playing football for the Lafayette Bobcats and the Centaurus Warriors before being recruited to attend the University of Colorado. He also played on numerous summer baseball leagues in Fort Collins. Ryan was recruited by CU as an undersized offensive lineman with an incredible work ethic that earned him the respect of his peers and coaches. Ryan was an excellent student academically, maintaining better than a 3.0 GPA throughout his entire college career. By his senior season, he epitomized the size and strength of a prototypical lineman, and was elected as one of 3 team captains. He was selected to be a member of the Playboy All-American team, and was also a pre-season first-team All-American selection by College Sports News, Preview Sports and Street & Smith's. During his junior season, Ryan played remarkably at every position on the offensive line. And while he started every game but the first of his red-shirt freshman year, injuries began to impact his play during his senior season. The Atlanta Falcons selected Ryan as a free agent for the 2000 and 2001 seasons. His chronic back injuries were such that he was unable to play during his tenure in the NFL. Ryan returned to the Boulder area following his retirement from football and started an IT career, providing personal and business IT support, computer hardware and software installation and repairs. Ryan successfully achieved his certification as a Microsoft Engineer. In 2009/2010, Ryan completed all but his thesis for a Master's Degree in Public Affairs. Aside from being a very conscientious student and whiz with computers, he was also an incredible tinkerer, equally comfortable rebuilding the suspension or replacing the fuel pump in his classic Ford Bronco. He was an avid fan of NASCAR racing and was knowledgeable about race strategy and who was leading the standings for the championship cup. Following his active football career, one of his great pleasures was working as a spotter from the press box during home games, and as a post-game co-host for the KOA radio ""Buff Talk"" program. Ryan had a special talent for relating to all and being a good friend – his charm endeared him to many and all that he was made his family proud. We are so grateful for being a part of your life, Ryan, and for the opportunity to experience the joy of celebrating your many accomplishments. A Memorial Service will be held for family and friends on Saturday, March 21, 2015 at 1:00PM – East Stadium Club (on the Byron R. White Club Level) at Folsom Field, University of Colorado, 2400 Colorado Avenue, Boulder, Colorado. In lieu of flowers, to honor Ryan, memorial contributions may be made in memory of him to the University of Colorado Foundation, in care of the Leadership Development Program (http://www.cubuffs.com/ldp). Pleas share your memories of Ryan and condolences with his family by signing the guest book below.