Shelly A Ryan

Shelly Ann Kregel Ryan, age 45, passed away peacefully on July 17, 2025. Born on October 20, 1979, Shelly lived a life marked by compassion, generosity and joy. Shelly was a devoted wife to her husband, Carl, and a loving, attentive mother to their two daughters, Emily and Tessa. Her family was the heart of her world, and her fierce, unconditional love will remain with them always. She was the beloved daughter of Charles and Nancy Kregel and a cherished sister to Matt (Jackie) Kregel. Shelly was also a treasured aunt, friend, and mentor. Her kindness extended far beyond her immediate family—she was known for her ability to listen deeply, offer comfort freely, and show up for others without hesitation. Shelly dedicated 18 years to teaching, shaping young minds with patience and heart. Her love for children extended into her role as a foster parent, where she provided care and stability to seven children over five years. Her nurturing spirit, paired with her boundless empathy, made her a guiding light in many young lives. A lifelong Disney enthusiast and lover of swing dance and Hallmark movies, Shelly brought a sense of fun wherever she went. She found happiness in life’s little moments—sharing laughter with her nieces and nephews, spending time with friends, and creating memories filled with love and meaning. Even in illness, Shelly remained selfless and strong, meeting each challenge with grace and courage. Her quiet resilience and radiant spirit will never be forgotten. A celebration of Shelly’s life will be held on Sunday, July 27, 2025, from 2:00–6:00 p.m. at Hack-Jensen Funeral Home in Beecher, IL. A funeral service will follow on Monday, July 28 at 11:00 a.m., also at Hack-Jensen, with burial to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the family to help support Shelly’s daughters and honor her legacy of love and care. https://www.gofundme.com/f/in-memory-of-shelly-ryan