Ryan O’Donnell Obituary, Manistee, MI Death – Beloved Teacher and Family Man Dies at 50

MANISTEE, MICHIGAN — Ryan Francis O’Donnell, a longtime Manistee high school chemistry teacher and devoted family man, died Sunday, August 23, 2026. He was 50.

Born September 29, 1975, to William and Carol (Boes) O’Donnell, Ryan grew up in Brighton, Michigan, as the youngest of five children. From an early age, he developed a curiosity about the world around him, enjoying drawing, maps, animals, science and time outdoors with his family.

Ryan graduated from Michigan State University in 1998 with a degree in chemical engineering. After marrying Blythe (Fickes) O’Donnell in November 1999, the couple relocated to Manistee, where Ryan later earned a master’s degree in education from Ferris State University.

He went on to teach high school chemistry for more than two decades. His obituary describes teaching as a source of tremendous pride, particularly when former students returned to tell him how well prepared they were for college chemistry or simply stopped to greet him around town.

Away from the classroom, Ryan devoted himself to his family. He and Blythe raised four children, and he supported them at games, concerts, recitals, meets and theatrical productions. He also enjoyed teaching his children about insects, trees, animal tracks, astronomy, weather, geography and fly fishing.

His family remembered him as someone whose views on politics, faith and even cooking were well known, but above all, they knew how deeply he loved them.

Ryan is survived by his wife, Blythe; children Brynn, Jack, Andy and Maeve; his mother; siblings Anne-Marie, Tim, Will and Fred; and numerous extended family members.

A Mass from the Order of Christian Funerals will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, August 27, at Guardian Angel Catholic Church in Manistee. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m.

Ryan O’Donnell leaves behind a legacy as an educator, husband, father and community member whose influence will continue through his students and family.