Ryan Matthew Fairbank passed away at his home in Roulette, Pennsylvania on January 06, 2023, just 3 days shy of his 45th birthday.  His family and friends are heartbroken.

Ryan was born January 9, 1978 to Eric Fairbank and Peggy Morgan in Easton, Maryland. In 1999 he met the love of his life, Keri Kulp; they married in 2001 and have 2 children, Kiersten and Kole.  They lived in Easton for a time before moving near Keri’s family in Roulette, Pennsylvania; AKA “God’s Country”.

After suffering a severe spinal injury in 2008, Ryan became a stay-at-home Dad and thrived in this job. In 2011 he took on the enormous and loving task of homeschooling their children.  This continued through their graduations in 2019 and 2021.  Ryan was most proud of his children and the people they have become with his guidance.

After they graduated, Ryan began working at UPMC Cole’s Skilled Nursing & Rehab Unit with elderly patients.  He planned their activities, read to them, or would simply sit and listen to stories of their lives.  The nurses tell how he would paint the ladies’ nails and do their hair.  His patience, compassion and love of history made him perfect for this work.  He loved his job and they all loved him.

On April 11, 2022 Ryan was diagnosed with brain cancer in the form of a grade 4 glioblastoma. From that day onward he shared his entire journey; diagnosis, treatments, and his thoughts on what was happening to him with his followers on Instagram (@lostinpottercounty) and Facebook. It was important for him to be transparent about this process.

Ryan was a down-to-earth family man.  Even with the kids grown, they all enjoyed movie nights and game nights together; summer nights around the fire pit telling stories, and their annual vacation to Sea Isle, New Jersey. Looking for treasures on the beach and playing mini-golf were some of the memories that stand out.

Part way through his cancer treatments Ryan learned he was going to be a grandfather.  He was over the moon and wanted more than anything to meet and hold his grandson. That wish was granted on November 14 when Oliver Ryan Thomas was born.  Before his passing Ryan was able to record himself reading some of his favorite books for Oliver.  What a treasure.

Ryan was a kind, spiritual and open-minded man.  He was dedicated to his yoga and meditation practice, which helped him manage his chronic pain and come to terms with this terminal illness.  He was a voracious reader, often reading multiple books at the same time.  He loved bird watching and generally communing with nature.  He enjoyed long walks to the river where he’d spend hours with his dog Ruby and a good book. The family enjoyed their time at the river where they would search for beautiful little river rocks that Ryan would place among his collection of succulents. Before his diagnosis, Ryan completed a 7-day, 84-mile solo hike of the Susquehannock Trail System.  He said it was the most beautiful and transformative experience of his life.

Ryan is survived and sorely missed by his loving wife, Keri (Kulp); his 2 children, Kiersten and Kole; and his brand-new grandson, Oliver Ryan. Forever cherished by his mother, Peggy (Morgan) Andrew; father, Eric Fairbank and stepmom Lisa; his maternal grandfather, Thomas Morgan; and siblings Elizabeth “Liz” and Patrick Andrew.  His memory will live on with his numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws and so many dear friends.

Ryan was predeceased by his paternal grandparents, Robert and Shirley Lorraine “Rainey” Fairbank and his maternal grandmother Thelma Gertrude Morgan.

Services are still being planned at this time.

Contributions in memory of Ryan and in support of his family can be made here:  http://spot.fund/HelpRyanOnHisCancerJourney

Due to Ryan’s inability to work after treatments began, Keri missing work to care for him, and mounting medical bills, they have fallen way behind on their obligations and are unable to make the budget on her single income. The family is looking for long term solutions. In the meantime, anything you can contribute to help out would be a huge blessing to the family. No amount is too small.  Bless you.
Condolences can be mailed to:

Keri Fairbank

163 Main St.

Roulette, PA 16746