Ryan Trusler
It is with broken hearts that we announce the unexpected passing of our amazing husband, father, son, brother, uncle, cousin and friend, Ryan Trusler, on Wednesday, Feb. 5, 2025.
Ryan was the loving husband and best friend of Anita Trusler (nee Vanderhelm) and incredible dad and role model to Jake (Mallory) and Alec (Nikki).
He was the beloved son of Chet and Diana Trusler, the cherished brother of Shana Baptista (Seb), cousin and honorary brother of Scott (Helen and Zoë) and nephew of Jackson and Peter Rattee.
Ryan was the dear son-in-law of Arnold and Tina Vanderhelm and brother-in-law of Arnold Jr. (Andrea) and the loving uncle of Anika (Bryan), Annalee, Olivia, and Cathryn.
Ryan had a strong connection to Bala, Muskoka which includes many cherished relatives, chosen family, and countless memories on the Moon River. Ryan also cherished his “Jimmyhood” family, with whom he shared backyard projects, laughter, bonfires and poolside pints.
Ryan was a graduate of Wilfrid Laurier University and a CPA, launching his career in Newmarket before moving to Sarnia in 2000. He established strong roots in Sarnia through his involvement with Sarnia Golf and Curling Club, Sarnia Minor Hockey, Lambton AAA, MS Bike, Bluewater International GranFondo and Libro. His career spanned a number of companies including Magna International, Woodbridge Foam Corporation, UBE Automotive, Lanxess, Hiawatha Horse Park, Entropex, and most recently with S&R Group as the CFO, where he found his dream team of colleagues.
Ryan’s true passion was working with his hands, rather than spreadsheets, exemplified by his personal remodelling of their family home through skills he learned from his dad. His other passions included golf, hockey, cycling, baseball, skiing, travelling and enjoying the company of friends over music and a good beer or Scotch.
Ryan was a legend and leaves a big hole in the hearts of everyone who knew and loved him.
Cremation has taken place. Family and friends will be received at Smith Funeral Home, 1576 London Line, Sarnia, on Tuesday, Feb. 18, with visitation from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and service commencing at 1 p.m. A livestream will be made available on Ryan’s memorial page at the time of service. Family and friends are then invited to the Sarnia Golf and Curling Club, 500 Errol Road West, Sarnia, following the service for a celebration of Ryan’s life.
Donations in memory of Ryan can be made to Bluewater Health Foundation (cheques only at the funeral home please).