Ryan (Erickson) Grimm, 39 of Pukwana, South Dakota, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, January 5, 2026.

Ryan was born on April 2, 1986 in Aledo, IL to Steve Erickson and Judy (Fuller) Swartzkopf. He graduated from Rock Island High School in Rock Island, IL with the class of 2004. He later earned a Bachelor's degree in Theology from Franciscan University of Steubenville in 2009 followed by an Associate Nursing Degree in 2015 from Black Hawk College.

Ryan dedicated his professional life to caring for others as a Registered Nurse at Sanford Care Center in Chamberlain, SD where he was widely respected as a strong patient advocate and compassionate caregiver.

In 2020, Ryan fell in love with the beauty of South Dakota and proudly made it his permanent home. He married Travis Grimm on October 1, 2024 on a scenic overlook in Chamberlain, SD. He was known for his generous heart, infectious smile, and unforgettable laugh. He had a profound love for friends, family and his "Blue Crew." He had a passion for gaming, music, politics, theology and traveling with friends on various vacations throughout the United States. He was a devoted cat dad to his beloved cats Nicki and Trinket.

Ryan's kindness, generosity, and unwavering compassion left a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be remembered for the love he shared, the lives he touched , and the light he brought into the world.

Grateful for having shared his life is his beloved husband Travis Grimm of Pukwana, SD. His father Steve Erickson (Janet) of Rock Island, IL and mother Judy Schwartzkopf of Sherrod, IL. His brothers Dilan Schwartzkopf (Frank Zarazinski) of Sherrod, IL and Steven Erickson (Alexi Papalossi) of Glendale, AZ. Step brothers Derrick Newton (Amanda) of Iowa City, IA and Devin Newton (Carolina) of Iowa City. Parents- in laws Dave and Mary Grimm of Battle Creek, MI. Brother-in-laws David Grimm (Jaimee) of Battle Creek, MI; Matt Grimm (Corrine) of Kalamazoo, MI; Trevor Grimm (Cynthia) of Eldridge, IA. Sister-in-law Allison Houts (Michael) of Kalamazoo, MI. As well as many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and grandparents.

Funeral services will be 11:00 am Monday, January 12th at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Chamberlain with visitation to begin at 10:00 a.m. at the church.

The service will also be live-streamed on Trinity Lutheran's website.

A Celebration of Life will be held in Rock Island, IL at a later date and time.

Trinity Lutheran Church Facebook Page link: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560641274577

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