Ryan O'Donoghue, 46, of Denver, Colorado, passed away unexpectedly at his home on May 9, 2025. He was born in Bay Village, Ohio, on December 13, 1978.

He is survived by his wife whom he cherished, Tara (nee Puglia) and his precious daughter, Marley Joy; his loving parents, Carolyn (nee Chambers) and Paul, and stepmother Mary (nee McHale); his dear parents-in-law, Frank and Joyce Puglia; his brother-in-law Evan (Amaryth Gass); his aunts, Mary (Brian) McKeown, Susan (Tim) Beatty, and Sally (wife of his late uncle Kevin) O'Donoghue; his first cousins Jason (Wendy) Adams, Matthew (Christopher) Yorro, Kristen (Thomas) Luff, Kevin (Stephanie) Brown, Eileen (Jason) Kohler, Catharine (Josh) Hoover and David O'Donoghue; his stepbrothers John (Christine) Foster and Marty (Erin) Foster; three step-nephews, two step-nieces and ten cousins once removed.

During his years growing up in Bay Village, Ryan excelled in both football and wrestling. He applied his talent and drive to achieve academically, winning scholastic awards throughout high school. Ryan attended Georgetown University and graduated with honors. He earned recognition as an Academic All-American in Football in 2000 and 2001. In 2004, the mountains were calling so Ryan moved to Colorado. He loved the outdoors, becoming an avid hiker and mountain biker, and an expert skier.

In 2005, Ryan was predeceased by his beloved "Irish twin" brother and best friend, Colin O'Donoghue. This life-altering experience redirected Ryan's focus. From then on, he dedicated his life to cancer advocacy for young adults. His mission was to ensure that those facing life-changing diagnoses had the support and resources they needed. His leadership as CEO of First Descents, a non-profit that provides empowering outdoor adventures for young adults impacted by cancer, embodied his passion for serving this community. Ryan's work in this field was recognized by The Denver Business Journal in the 2018 class of 40 under 40 honorees.

Ryan made an indelible impact on his family, friends and colleagues, and the countless lives he touched through his work. Kindness, empathy, strength and determination were his foundation, interwoven into everything he did. Ryan's legacy of love, leadership, and advocacy will endure in the hearts of many.

A memorial celebration for Ryan will be private.