Ryan Duane Thacker, 46, of Russell, Kansas and formerly of Hays, Kansas passed away Friday, October 14, 2016 at his home after a courageous battle with cancer.

Ryan was born August 4, 1970 in Russell, the son of Duane Lee and Janet Marie (Burghardt) Thacker.  He grew up in Luray and graduated from Lucas/Luray High School.  He then attended Ft. Hays State University where he obtained a degree in Business.

Ryan was an independent Real Estate Agent mainly in the Hays, Kansas housing market.  He has lived most all of his adult life in Hays until 2015 when he moved to Russell due to health reasons.  He loved all aspects of motorcycles and hot rods.  He especially enjoyed socializing with his family and friends.

Surviving family include his three children; Keaton Rozean, Bryanna Thacker and Braxton Thacker all of Hays, Kansas; companion, Jalynn Paulson of Hays, Kansas;  father, Duane Thacker of Russell, Kansas; brothers, Ronald Thacker (Shawna) of Offerle, Kansas, Rick Thacker of Russell, Kansas and Russell Thacker of Hays, Kansas; and  sister, Rachelle Thacker of Russell, Kansas; step-brother, Kelly DePiesse of Russell, Kansas; nieces and nephews, Dusty, Cody, Hillary, Megan, Alexis, Sky, Shelby and Sheldon; and great niece Alayna.  He was preceded in death by his mother.

A Memorial Service will be held at 10:00 A.M. Friday, October 21, 2016 at the Luray United Methodist Church.  Burial of ashes will follow at the Luray City Cemetery.  No visitation being held due to cremation.  A Memorial has been established as the Ryan Thacker Memorial Fund.  Contributions and condolences may be sent to Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, who is in charge of these arrangements.