Ryan S. R. Howes, 29, of Duluth and formerly of Superior, passed away Friday, March 7, 2014 at Essentia-St. Mary's Hospital in Duluth.

Ryan was born in Superior on July 25, 1984, the son of Debra Howes and Clifford Hughes. He married the former Krystal Marie Mesedahl on Feb. 8, 2014.

A Superior Senior High School graduate, Ryan received his Fitness & Wellness Management Bachelor's Degree from UW- Superior. He was known as the first "Trio Baby" of the following programs, Upward Bound, Student Support Services, and McNair Scholars. Ryan was a proud member of the Tau Kappa Epsilon Fraternity and later became an advisor to the Fraternity.

Ryan worked for the University of Minnesota Duluth Medical School at the Center of American Indian & Minority Health. He also served on the Medical School's Board of Admissions. He was very proud of the impact he had on the students' futures. He traveled around the country recruiting future Native American doctors and encouraged them to reach their goals.

Ryan's growing passion was learning more and sharing his Native American culture. His goal professionally and spiritually was to help his people. His Indian name was Gidagebines, Spotted Eagle. Ryan would share with people, 'Niin Gidagebines indizhinikaaz. Mesabekoons indoonjaabaa. Miigizi indoodem.' This translates to 'My name is Spotted Eagle. I am from Duluth, MN. I am Eagle Clan.' He prided himself in teaching his son Ojibwemowiin, the Ojibwe language. Ryan attributed much of his spiritual growth to Herb and Patty Sam who showed him love, patience, and strength. Miigwech, thank you.

He was a huge sports fan and enjoyed fishing. At UWS he was a manager for the Basketball teams. He was a devoted Packer fan and while at the Mayo Clinic he received a call from Jermichael Finley wishing him well and encouraging him. He loved watching sports with William and teaching him to play. One of their favorite times together was March Madness, even if their beloved Badgers didn't do well.

Ryan was preceded in death by his grandparents, aunts, uncles and a cousin.

He is survived by his wife, Krystal and son, William; mother, Debra and father, Clifford; stepmother, Geraldine Hughes; brothers and sisters, Rachel Howes, Danielle Howes-Hughes, Desiree Hughes, Gary Vendela and Brooke Hughes; a special brother at heart, Darrell Howes, Jr.; nieces, Leviella & Elizabeth; Goddaughters, Hailey and Heaven; a Godson, Isaiah; many aunts, uncles, cousins; special friends, especially his Northside boys; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Brian and Diane Mesedahl; and his furry son, Junior.
Ryan's visitation will be on Monday, Mar. 10 from 5- 8pm at Downs Funeral Home, corner of 19th St. and Ogden Ave. A private family service will be held on Tuesday.

The family would like to thank all of the local businesses and supporters for their never-ending support during Ryan's battle. They would like to give a special thank you to the doctors at Essentia Health Cancer Center, Mayo Clinic and the amazing team at 3 East who never gave up on Ryan's fight.

As Jimmy V said, "Don't give up! Don't ever give up!" – Howes Love.