Obituary: Ryan Nicholas Knudsen, 44, of Ludington

Ryan Knudsen

In Loving Memory of Ryan Nicholas Knudsen (aka “Smiley”)

Ryan, a virtuoso behind the drum kit, passed away on Monday, May 20, 2024 in Ludington at age 44. Born with an innate talent for percussion, Ryan dedicated much time to perfecting the craft of drumming, touching the musical souls of all that heard him play.

Beyond the stage, Ryan was cherished for his warmth, kindness, and a knack for making other people laugh. He brought great joy to the world around him through his music but more importantly through his infectious smile. His smile was known to brighten even the darkest of days. He had a close relationship with his family and could always be counted on being the life of holiday get-togethers. Ryan’s legacy of kindness will continue to inspire and uplift those who were fortunate enough to know him.

Ryan is survived by his parents Kim Babcock and Randy (Donna) Knudsen; his siblings Erin (Eric) Jensen, Ellen (Mike) Darke, Kevin (Kelly) Knudsen, Kristen (Joey) Luna, and Lauren Babcock; his nieces and nephews Faith Jensen, Jayden Knudsen, Sean Hendrickson, Carson Jensen, Braylynn Lange, Lewis Darke, Madylynn Lange, Heidi Darke, Collin Lange, and Rylynn Knudsen; as well as many aunts, uncles, and cousins. Ryan was preceded in death by his twin siblings Craig and Michelle Knudsen, his paternal grandparents Wendell and Elise Knudsen, his maternal grandparents Marshall and Virginia Blount, his Aunt Karen Sniegowski, and his Uncle Jeff Blount.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the West Shore Bank Rhythm and Dunes Concert Series in honor of Ryan’s passion for music and his desire to support the local music scene at https://www.westshorebank.com/rhythm-and-dunes or via check to West Shore Bank with the memo Rhythm & Dunes.

A celebration of Ryan’s life will be held on Friday, May 24 at 2 p.m. at Oak Grove Funeral Home in Ludington. Visitation will be held prior to the celebration of life from noon to 2 p.m. Please join us in honoring the remarkable legacy of a beloved musician, family member, and friend whose beats will resound through eternity.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Oak Grove Funeral Home of Ludington, www.oakgroveludington.com.