Skip to content

Individual Recognized: Ryan James Batchelder

Naval serviceman, Ryan James Batchelder, met an untimely end at Stanford Hospital, California, on August 4, 2025. The cause was a swift and severe health issue. The funeral services are scheduled.

Individual identified as Ryan James Batchelder
Individual identified as Ryan James Batchelder

Individual Recognized: Ryan James Batchelder

Obituary: MC1 Ryan James Batchelder (1986-2025)

MC1 Ryan James Batchelder, a decorated U.S. Navy veteran and beloved son, passed away on August 4, 2025, at Stanford Hospital, California. He was 40.

Born on April 6, 1986, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Ryan was the cherished son of Deb and Jon Batchelder. He grew up in Decorah, Iowa, where he graduated from Decorah High School in 2004. After his high school graduation, Ryan attended Northeast Iowa Community College.

Ryan enlisted in the U.S. Navy as a Mass Communication Specialist at the age of 27. His dedication and service earned him numerous accolades throughout his career. He attained the rank of First Class and was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, three Good Conduct Medal awards, the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement medal four times, and two Flag Letter of Commendation awards.

The funeral service for Ryan will be held on Monday, August 25, 2025, at Helms Funeral Homes, Decorah, IA. Visitation will be held on Sunday, August 24, 2025, and Monday, August 25, 2025, at the same location. Pastor Susan Debner will preside over the service. Burial will take place at the Minnesota Veterans' Cemetery in Preston, MN.

Ryan is survived by his parents, Deb and Jon, his maternal grandmother, Janet Berens and her special friend, Ronnie Easton, his maternal aunt, Kathy (Chris) Bell, his uncles, Ted (Julie), Philip, and Mark (Delores) Batchelder, and lifelong friend Ross Thornton. He is also survived by his French Bulldog, Willow, and his special dogs, Polly and Hollis, who were forever held in his heart.

Ryan is preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Blair Berens, and his paternal grandparents, Everett and Doris Batchelder.

Ryan's life and service will be remembered for his courage, dedication, and love for his family and friends. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Ryan's name to the Wounded Warrior Project.

Read also:

Latest