
1943 - 2025
Jack Ryel, age 82, passed away peacefully on June 28, 2025, at the Hospice House in Oklahoma City, surrounded by the love of his family.
Jack was born in Hutchinson, Kansas, June 26, 1943, to Lowell and Edna (Lee) Ryel. One of five siblings, he grew up in Cherokee, Oklahoma, where he developed a strong work ethic and deep sense of family. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers JD and Joe; and his sister Neva (Egner).
Jack attended Oklahoma State University at Northwestern, Alva, Oklahoma, earning his Bachelor of Science, Mathematics with a minor in Physics and Education. While there, he met the love of his life, Blanche Mack. The two married on August 6, 1966, beginning a partnership that spanned nearly 59 years. Shortly after, Jack joined the U.S. Army, and the couple moved to Tennessee, where Jack earned his Master of Science, Economics with a minor in Accounting, at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee. It was there they welcomed their two sons, Brian and Jeff.
Over the years, Jack's career with Phillips 66 took the family across the South — living in Arkansas, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Texas — before eventually settling back in Oklahoma to be closer to family. After retiring, Jack embraced his curiosity and a hands-on nature. He was truly a "Jack of all trades," dabbling in everything from the bug spray business to bar tending school, while continuing to stay active selling health insurance.
Above all, Jack was a family man — a dedicated husband, proud father, uncle, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He leaves behind his beloved wife Blanche; brother Ron Ryel, sons Brian and Jeff; five grandchildren, Nicholas Ryel, Ashley Ryel, Ben Lindsly, Leslie Bolinger, Paxton Johnson; and two great-grandchildren, Conner and Presley Ryel, along with many cherished extended family members and friends.
Jack will be remembered for his wit, his work ethic, and his unshakeable devotion to his family. His legacy lives on in the love and stories shared by those who knew him.
Mass of Christian Burial will be Saturday, July 5, 2025 at 11:00 am in St. Joseph Catholic Church, Bison, with Reverend John Herrera celebrant. Burial will follow in Bison Cemetery under the direction of Anderson-Burris Funeral Home and Crematory, Enid. Recitation of the Rosary will be Thursday evening at 6:00 pm at the funeral home.
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