Ryan’s huge, engaging smile touched everyone around him.

People were naturally drawn to Ryan: relaxed, ready for fun, kind, intelligent, warm, a born leader, a passionate teacher. His joy for life was infectious.

Ryan was born on August 31, 1989, and raised in Bedford, New Hampshire, and on Lake Massasecum in Bradford, New Hampshire. He attended high school at Proctor Academy in Andover, New Hampshire, and college at Westminster College in Salt Lake City, Utah.

On April 28, 2011, Ryan’s life tragically ended in a canoeing accident on Lake Powell in Utah.

Growing up in rural New Hampshire, Ryan spent his time skiing in the winter and exploring the woods, hiking, four-wheeling, biking, playing soccer, and fishing the rest of the year. As a man, Ryan was a gentle giant, with a long and lean physique honed by rock climbs, back-country skiing, long boarding, biking, and rugged camping trips.

In his 21 years of life, Ryan Bishop took every opportunity to explore the natural world. He loved rocks, trees, wildlife, and water, as well as any outdoor sports and activities that embraced nature. His life was as much about curiosity and pushing his limits as it was about bringing people together to share experiences and enjoy friendship. He had a passion for teaching others and spreading the joy he gained from being outside.

Ryan had countless friends, and he cherished his family. He took great pleasure in sitting around a fire by the lake and looking at stars, eating breakfast with his grandparents, and enjoying numerous water sports with his extended family. Ryan could always be found with his brother Christopher, his cousins, and a tight group of friends.

If you spent time with Ryan, you often came away having done something you may never have done on your own. You had an amazing experience and a great Ryan Story to tell.