It is with deep and profound sadness that we announce the passing of our dad and grandpa, Jerry (Jez) Ryba, on May 18th, 2024. Dad passed in the arms of his daughter, Jeri, in her home.
Dad was born in Moose Jaw to Charlie and Mary Anastasia Ryba and was the youngest of ten children. He attended Prince Arthur School and Moose Jaw Technical High School.
As a teenager he worked at the roller rink and for the CPR. He worked at the Moose Jaw Refinery for 41 years until his retirement. The last few years dad was plant manager, and he would joke that he wanted to write a book titled ‘You too can become manager after 41 years’. After retirement he enjoyed spending time with mom and the staff at the family business The Dash Leather Goods.
Jerry met the love of his life, Sandra Dash, at age 16. He was tying her roller skates, and they were together since that day, until Sandra’s passing in 2020. He was heartbroken from her loss and never stopped missing her.
Throughout his life he was a true athlete. He excelled at basketball and football. Top scorer in grade 12 for Tech High School for basketball, and an offer to play football for the Hilltops was turned down to stay in Moose Jaw with Sandra. He always said it was the best decision ever made.
He stayed active throughout his life. Jerry ran the Regina Marathon in 2004. He was also an avid racquetball player for many years at the YMCA in Crescent Park. He reffed basketball for over 30 years and was coach to many in minor girls fastball and Senior Ladies League.
Jerry was a true sports fan of professional football, hockey and baseball. He was a devoted fan of the Moose Jaw Warriors since they came to town in 1984. He was a season ticket holder for many years until he became a caregiver for mom and was unable to attend. This did not stop him from listening to games on the radio or watching whenever he could. Even a hospital stay at the end of March didn’t stop him from listening to the Warriors from his hospital bed. He was thrilled to be able to watch the Warriors win their WHL Championship.
Dad was the most generous person you will ever meet; his sense of humour was unmatched. He loved teasing and had nicknames for everyone in the family and close friends.
Sandra and Jerry travelled extensively. They enjoyed trips to Europe, Hawaii, Venezuela, throughout Canada and the United States. They enjoyed spending winters in Victoria in their retirement. A highlight for Jerry was visiting the Czech Republic, birthplace of his mom and grandparents. Dad was very proud of his Czech heritage.
He was predeceased by his loving wife of 62 years, Sandra in 2020; best friend, Neil Koop; niece, Jennifer Milne Bisson; siblings: Alice, Millie, Edna, Rose, Kay, Mary Agnes, Dutch and Cecil.
Jerry is survived by his daughters: Jeri, Janis (Rob), and Jacquie; grandchildren: Rundle Ryba, Jessica and Jahson Simoneau, Matt and Heather Schoenroth, Kevin Jowsey, Andrew and Jessie Jowsey, Lauren and Jamie Yuen; great-grandchildren: Fred, Marie, Evie, Grayson, Kai and Lily; beloved friend, Marge Koop of Winnipeg; cherished family: George Dash, Brenda and Ray Milne, and Cherry Milne; sister, Eileen Coveney of Ontario; friends and coffee mates, Gord Wilson and Dr. Willem Geyer.
Special thanks to Dr. Geyer for providing and treating dad with so much care, concern, and wisdom. And, for being such a strong support to our family.
We will Honor and Celebrate Jerry’s life on Wednesday July 3rd, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. at Moose Jaw Funeral Home with Pastor Marvin Seaborg officiating. Arrangements are entrusted to Moose Jaw Funeral Home, 268 Mulberry Lane. Andrew Pratt, Funeral Director 306-693-4550 www.moosejawfuneralhome.com
