ARCATA - Brendan P. Ryan of Arcata, Calif. died Dec. 18, 2012 Born in Wilmington, Del., he was the son of Patrick J. Ryan and Cheryl J. Pawson. He had spent his early life in Dover and later moved to Southern N.J. Brendan was a graduate of Egg Harbor Township High Class of 1997, where he had excelled in Track & Field and received numerous awards for his participation throughout the South Jersey area. He received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Penn State University in 2004 and later received a Master of Social Work degree from Humboldt State University in 2010. At the time of his death Brendan was serving as Assistant Director of the Eureka's Multiple Assistance Center in Humboldt County, Calif. which serves families in crisis. Brendan enjoyed the beach and water and had a special fondness for nature as he often hiked and camped in the Red Wood Forests. He had been a loyal fan of the Washington Redskins and in his quieter moments he enjoyed reading and music. His passing will leave a void in the many lives that touched. Besides his parents, Brendan is survived by his sister, Maureen Crites of Newark, Del.; and his brother, Michael Ryan of Durham, N.C.; his step father, Raymond V. Pawson; several aunts and uncles and numerous cousins. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews including; Candice Casterline, Stefanie Metheny, Riley Estep and nephew Damien Metheny. Private services were held on Tuesday, Jan. 8, 2013 with entombment following at the Holy Cross Mausoleum in Dover. Life's End Services were by Michael J. Ambruso Funeral Director, Inc. Dover. Donations in Brendan's Memory may be forwarded to the Multiple Assistance Center of Humboldt County, 2413 2nd St. Eureka, CA 95501. Condolences and Guest Book Signings may be made via www.ambruso.com.