March 19, 1985 – November 25, 2025
Ryan Stenzel was born in West Memphis, Arkansas, and spent his early childhood in Belgium before moving with his family to Jay, Oklahoma, at age twelve. After graduating from Jay High School in 2003, he made his way to Stillwater, which quickly became his true home. He graduated from OSU in 2020. No matter where life took him, Stillwater was always the place where Ryan felt most himself, surrounded by the people he cherished.
Ryan valued friendships more than anything and loved meeting new people. He considered no one a stranger; to him, they were simply a future friend. If someone entered a room, they wouldn’t leave without knowing Ryan Stenzel.
He also wasn’t afraid to stand up for what he believed in or have the difficult conversations. He questioned and, if needed, challenged what was wrong, especially when it affected others.
Ryan was the world’s biggest YES-man and never backed away from an invitation to meet up with friends, go to dinner, watch sports, play Xbox NHL Hockey, or talk until the sun came up.
When his mother was hospitalized after a car accident, Ryan stayed at her bedside almost every night, sacrificing his own comfort for her needs.
His own medical challenges were significant, prolonged, and often filled with pain, but he faced each new setback with courage. He was deeply grateful for the people in his life who gave him strength. He valued his close relationships and any amount of time spent with loved ones.
Survivors include his parents, Steve Stenzel of Ft. Scott, Kansas and Bonnie Stenzel of Jay, Oklahoma, currently residing in Springfield, Missouri for rehab purposes; a brother, Zachary Stenzel (Jessica) and two sisters, Rebekah Stenzel and Sarah Stenzel. He is also survived by three cherished nephews, Chance, Chase, and Foster and a niece, Bennett.
Ryan left this world the same way he moved through it; with kindness, courage, and an open heart. Ryan was ready to meet the Lord and be welcomed into his heavenly home.
There was cremation. A memorial service with burial in the Old Field Cemetery in Old Field, Missouri, will take place later in the spring. Arrangements were under the direction of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, Ft. Scott, Kansas. Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.
