Ryan grew up in Washington, Pennsylvania, where he developed a lifelong passion for hockey. A fiercely competitive player, he skated with the Southpointe Rink Rats, Bishop Canevin High School, and the Hockey Club at Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP). Known for his quick wit and infectious smile, he also enjoyed skiing, golf, and spending time with family and friends. He graduated from high school in 2001, lettering in hockey.

In 2003, while studying criminology at IUP, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve. He served with the 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, a Reserve unit based in Moundsville, West Virginia. In March 2005, he deployed to Iraq with Regimental Combat Team-2, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force. On July 10, 2005, he was killed by indirect fire during combat operations.

In tribute, City Mission—a nonprofit offering Christ-centered support to the homeless—named the Crabtree-Kovacicek Veterans House in his honor. His legacy lives on through his family, friends, and fellow Marines.