Funeral Details

Ryan W. McNerney, born February 28, 1984, in Melrose Park, Illinois, died peacefully at his Chicago home on September 11, 2026.
Ryan was a beautiful soul who brought wit, energy, and an unmistakable point of view to everyone around him. He had a natural ability to make people laugh and a gift for seeing things from an angle that was distinctly his own. His observations were surprising, irreverent, and very funny, and he had a way of making an impression without ever trying to be anyone other than himself.
From an early age, Ryan shone on stage, performing in high school musicals—including The Phantom of the Opera, Guys and Dolls, and Hello, Dolly!—as well as in community theater and at Second City. He was also a talented tennis player, playing four years on the Prairie Ridge varsity team and qualifying for the IHSA state tournament three times.
Ryan—who often went by "Mac"—had a deep curiosity about the world and a strong urge to put his thoughts into words. Of all his artistic pursuits, he was most proud of his writing, which reflected his intelligence and originality. He cared deeply about finding his own voice and expressing things in a way that felt true to him. His quirky cartoon characters known as “Doofs” were a reflection of his imagination and playful spirit. He had an unconventional approach to his art and thoroughly enjoyed taking an idea and figuring out how to give it form, often in unexpected ways.
Ryan found great joy in traveling with the love of his life, Melissa, and they shared many fun adventures together throughout the country. His dogs, Iggy and Peach, and cats, Bruce and Princess, were beloved family members.
Ryan’s life had its challenges, but they were only one part of a much fuller story. What remains are the things that made him who he was: the words he wrote, the art he made, the jokes he told, the ideas he shared, and the relationships he formed.
Ryan will be remembered by those who knew him for so many things, including his generous, loving spirit; his quick, unconventional wit; his intelligence and curiosity; and his ability to see things from an angle that others might have missed. Most of all, he will be remembered simply as Ryan—a rare and remarkable person whose absence will be deeply felt by all who knew and loved him.
Ryan is survived by his life partner, Melissa Thomfohrda; his mother, Lisa McNerney; his father, William McNerney; his brothers, Adam (Nikhon Khammungkhun) McNerney and Kyle (Audrey) McNerney; and his grandparents, Ron and Arline Pearson.
Private services will be held with family on Thursday, September 17. A Celebration of Life will follow at a later date, when family and friends can gather to remember and celebrate Ryan. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Ryan's memory to One Tail at a Time Pet Adoption, www.onetail.org/; Chirp Radio, chirpradio.org/; or any charity of your choice. Arrangements by Midtown Funeral Home and Cremation Options, 773.654.3744, www.midtownfunerals.com

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