In Remembrance

Ryan “Sunna” Sunnafrank

There are the facts of a life that get recounted at a time like this, almost meaningless vital statistics. A notice of death. Bryan James Sunnafrank (aka, Ryan, Sunna, #77). Born October 1, 1977. Lansing, Michigan. Died October 10, 2023. Duluth, MN. A horrible biking accident taking him away. Preceded in death by his Grandparents. Survived by his broken Mother and Father, Donna and Mike; His grieving sisters, Shana and Katie; His beloved children, Chloe and Jackson; His once and only wife, Jordan. Maybe some in-between highlights. All-State tackle, scholarship athlete, beloved coach and colleague, recipient of academic and professional awards and honors. RIP. #77 has left the game.

Facts. Like the photo you see of him here. Good looking photo, captures his likeness. But not really, not his essence. The eyes that could be filled with anything from joy to anger depending on what the moment brought. Eyes that told you he was there, right there with you, that there was no escape. The killer smile that lit up every room and, oh, so many lives. And the playful or healing touch of his hand, whatever was needed.

Deeper facts. The ultimate protector he always expected himself to be and so often was. The good-humored life of the party who wanted everyone to be happy. The loving and caring man who reached out to family and friends, neighbors and strangers in their times of need, putting a smile on their faces, wanting them to be the best version of themselves they could possibly be.

And deeper still, way deep down. A man who just wanted to love and be loved in return. Isn’t that what we all want, what we all need? Remember that as you remember him, as you think of the lost and lonely people of this world who, so sadly, in his last days included him. But here at the end, let us lift in tribute the boy-man known to one and all as Sunna, show him the love he so wanted. Let precious memories of him rise up, echoing down through the years into this moment. The memories he would want you to hold, the ones filled with light and life, laughter and love. And with tears of gratitude for what was, a holy sorrow for what will never be again, not in this life. Take a moment or two out of your busy day, find that place where a memory of him comes alive once again, of who he was in that moment, of who you were in that moment. And hold it close, see what it meant. Pray that memory to heaven, to the ripple of him that still touches your life.

If you would, if you could, share that memory or a sentiment with all of us. But most especially share it for his children who will one day want to know more, so much more, of the man who once was their everything (even if it is a R-rated—remember these are Sunna’s kids, they can take it). You can do that at https://affordableduluth.com/obituaries/. Or if you are reading this on Facebook, you can post a comment in reply.

Last of all to you Bud, our dear broken son. We will always love you, are eternally grateful for the undying and forgiving love you gave us in return.