When I first read about Ryley Lotz, the news struck me hard. He was only nineteen but already known as a talented wrestler at Cleary University. He had been a standout at Swan Valley High School, too. His family shared that he passed away on October 29, 2025, after a severe asthma attack. He was surrounded by loved ones, which speaks volumes about the kind of person he was.
Ryley was born on July 26, 2006, and grew up near Freeland and Shields. People from his community described him as calm, respectful, and humble, even after achieving great things. I can relate to that, since some boys prefer to keep things simple and stay focused rather than show off.
He had a strong wrestling career. He earned four varsity letters and served as captain of his school team. He won 100 matches, which is impressive when you think about the effort that goes into it. He even made it to the individual state level. After high school, he continued wrestling at Cleary University, a goal many athletes aim for.
What really made me pause was learning that he wanted to support the next generation. He planned to join the Swan Valley varsity coaching staff. He had already coached younger wrestlers for years and helped countless kids who looked up to him. I also coach young kids in my area sometimes, so I know how rewarding it feels when someone actually listens to you or learns something from you. It brings a unique kind of joy.
His family mentioned that when he wasn’t wrestling, he loved being outdoors. They said the woods offered him a peaceful escape. He enjoyed hunting and fishing, often going out with his best friend Nathan. I know that feeling well because I also like spending time with my friends in quiet places, even if it’s just wandering near the canal. Those small moments stick with you.
Ryley is survived by his parents, Michael and Brittanie, his brothers, Cadyn and Greyson, and his fiancée, Violet. He had already envisioned a future with her. Learning this made his loss feel even heavier because losing someone so young is hard to bear.
His family also recalled people he had lost, including his cousin Madeline, his grandmothers, his friend Nathan, and his college roommate Ryan. It seemed he faced a lot of pain in his short life, yet he kept pushing forward and supported others.
The community’s reaction after his death was deeply emotional. Friends, schoolmates, and neighbors shared their memories. His mother, Brittanie, wrote a heartfelt message that truly resonated with me. She expressed how much she missed him every minute and how his laughter filled their home. She also noted how deeply he loved his family and friends and how his connection with his girlfriend always brought him joy.
His father, Michael, also shared his feelings. He said Ryley was a dreamer, lived with strong faith, and was more than just a son; he was his best friend. Reading messages like that reminds you that parents see their children in a special light.
Teachers remembered him as well. Shannon Henige, a teacher and photographer, talked about watching him grow in wrestling and having him in her class. She said he had a unique character that stayed with people. I appreciated this because teachers don’t often speak fondly unless they mean it.
The tribute page, Live Like Ryley, became a space for people to share their memories. Some offered short messages, others sent prayers, and some advised the family on coping with grief. These small gestures can make a big difference, especially when a family feels lost.
The wrestling community also came together. A GoFundMe was set up to support the family. They also suggested helping Michigan Outdoors Wishmakers, which was special to Ryley since he enjoyed outdoor activities. Reading that reminded me that sometimes hobbies become a significant part of how people are remembered.
A Celebration of Life event happened at Swan Valley High School on November 21, 2025. Hundreds attended. The family expressed gratitude and said it meant everything to see so many people support their son. It showed how many lives he touched, often without even trying.
His parents emphasized that his story is not a farewell. It serves as a reminder to live fully and love those around you. I appreciated that perspective because we often forget to savor the little moments amidst our busy lives.
People continue to post memories of him on the Live Like Ryley page. It reflects how much he meant to his community and the profound impact he made in just nineteen years. Although I never met him, reading all this made me feel like he was someone you’d want to be friends with. You may also be interested in: Remembering Meredith Ashley Yanes who passed away at 30 after her long sarcoma fight
