Ryan Jack Willacker, 40, of Montague, passed away Monday, October 20, 2025. He was born April 11, 1985, in Shelby, the son of Jack Willacker and Renee (Schlee) Willacker.

On October 4, 2008, Ryan married Nickole (Howard), and they spent 20 years together, 17 of them married. Together, they were blessed with two beautiful children, Jenna and Luke.

He graduated from Montague High School in 2003. After high school, he attended Muskegon Community College, where he earned an Associate's Degree in pre-law, Western Michigan University, earning a Bachelor's Degree in Political Science, with a minor in Mandarin, and almost completing a Master's Degree in Public Administration, with a minor in Mandarin. For years, he worked as a Master Scheduler, for Howmet.

Ryan was a devoted husband, father, and son. There was nothing he loved more than coming home to his family and spending time with his two children. He truly was a family man and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Ryan is survived by: his wife, Nickole Willacker; children, Jenna and Luke; mother, Renee Willacker; father, Jack (Wanda) Willacker; brother, Kyle (Jentry) Willacker; step-brother, Tim (Casey) Bazany; step-sisters, Allyssa (Chris) Burch and Calandra Bazany; and numerous family and friends.

Ryan was preceded in death by: Grandfathers, Walter Willacker and Dale schlee; grandmother, Arlene Grutte; and close friends, Brad varela and Michael Nafe.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, Thursday, October 23, 2025, at Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, White Lake Chapel, 413 South Mears Avenue, Whitehall, MI 49461. A graveside service will be conducted following the visitation at 12:30 PM, in Flower Creek Cemetery, 8750 S. 44th Avenue Montague, MI  49437, and a Luncheon will follow at Montague Township Hall, 8915 Whitbeck Rd, Montague, MI 49437, starting at 1:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family to assist with final expenses.

Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, White Lake Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.

www.beaconfh.com