The Honorable Judge Ryan Dale Johanningsmeier, 44, of Edwardsport, went home to be with the Lord in the early morning of August 29, 2020.
Ryan’s exceptional life started on September 6, 1975. He was born in Vincennes, to Roger and Chris Johanningsmeier. Farming, family, and 4-H shaped his early life and instilled in him the virtues of hard work, friendship, and compassion. These experiences were the foundation of the man he was to become.
Ryan graduated from North Knox High School in 1994, Purdue University with highest distinction in 1997, and Indiana University Law School with honors in 2000. Upon passing the bar exam, he began his law career in private practice before taking a position with the Indiana Attorney General’s Office. He returned home and was elected Judge of Knox County Superior Court II in 2014.
As Judge, his leadership was instrumental in establishing the Knox County Drug Court. True to his passion for helping people, this program offers an alternative to jail for those struggling with addiction and supports them in their life’s recovery. This is one of his greatest and proudest accomplishments in life and leaves a legacy that will be felt forever.
His commitment to the community was evident not only in his work, but in his personal life. He was a great friend to many, going above and beyond to help others. Whether using his legal expertise or his big heart, he provided comfort and support to countless people throughout the region. He was an active member of Bethel Church as a leader of the Church Council and a teacher in Sunday school. He touched countless lives.
Outside of work, Ryan sought adventure whenever possible. When not hunting and fishing, he was traveling the country to hike in National Parks and see the greatness of the natural world. He was also known for hosting great outdoor events on his property, featuring bonfires and fellowship which went long into the night. In recent years, his passion for flying opened up new opportunities making accessible many new adventures. He was always excited to take friends and family all over the country for extended trips, to view the farm fields, or sometimes just for lunch. Flying brought great joy to his life.
Ryan will be remembered for his selflessness, adventurous spirit, and engaging smile. He made an immeasurable impact during his short time on earth and he will be greatly missed.
He is survived by; his parents, Roger and Chris; his twin sister, Kari Johanningsmeier Preston of Carmel, and her children Claire and Grant; his brother, Jeff Johanningsmeier of Fort Wayne, and his wife Kate and their children Hannah and Noah.
Ryan is preceded in death by; paternal grandparents Carl and Marilyn Johanningsmeier, and his maternal grandparents Ray and Ida Bottema.
Visitation will be at Bethel Church, 13673 E. State Road 58, Edwardsport, IN 47528 on Thursday, September 3, 2020 from 4:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M. and Friday from 9:00 A.M. until 10:30 A.M. Funeral services will be held at Bethel Church on Friday, September 4, 2020 a 11:00 A.M. Guidelines for Covid-19 will be followed while at the church. Social distancing should be maintained, masks are optional upon entry of the church and the family encourages everyone to please attend the visitation and share memories but to try to stay within state guidelines for the funeral service. You may watch the service as it will be livestreamed on the church facebook page.
www.facebook.com/bethelchurchfreelandville/
Arrangements have been entrusted to Fredrick and SonMcClure-Utt Funeral Homes, Vincennes Chapel. Online condolences may be left at www.fredrickandson.com. Memorial Contributions can be made to the Bethel Church 13673 E. State Road 58, Edwardsport, IN 47528 Or the Knox County Drug Court Foundation at the following address:
Knox County Drug Court Foundation
P.O. Box 1843
Vincennes, Indiana 47591
