Ryan Fantasia

Ryan Fantasia of Tempe passed away on Sunday February 5th in Tempe, Arizona. He was 25 years old. Ryan was born on November 6, 1986 in Mesa, Arizona, to David and Lynne Fantasia. Ryan"s passion for martial arts started at an early age, but it was when he discovered Shao-Lin Kung Fu, he found his true calling. A natural in the art, he quickly mastered the various forms and was dedicated enough to attain the rank of black belt. His enthusiasm for Kung Fu reflected in every aspect of his amazing life, and his family, and his friends. He was driven when no one else would go; he gave support whenever anyone needed it. He accepted everyone into his heart and gave without asking; to him, there was no one that was not family. Ryan was, and this is an understatement, an adventurer. His travels across the world opened his eyes to the endless opportunities that life can hold; his charisma and warped sense of humor drew every kind of personality to him. The man was simply never satisfied with a subject until he had explored it from every possible angle, and that fact still shines in the people that remember him. Ryan"s ideology made everyone around him stretch their accepted perceptions and see the bigger world. His desire to understand drove us all to discover a little more"¦about the world, or our lives, or ourselves. Through his writings, or his humor, or his dedication, or his support"”through one thing or another Ryan found a way to leave a lasting impression on everyone that he met. We will never forget him. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to Phoenix Longevity Arts, c/o Jake Mace, 1200 West University Drive, Tempe, Arizona 85281, phone number (480) 894-8588, or collections can be taken at the service and we will deliver them for you. Ryan is survived by his parents, David and Lynne Fantasia of Mesa; his sister Nicole "Nicholas" Fantasia of Mesa; his grandparents, George and Olga Gifford of Big Flats, New York; and B. Eugene and Frances Fantasia of Mesa, Arizona. Ryan has the fortune of being a part of a large family, and he will be sorely missed by his many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. Visitation will be held on Friday February 10, 2012 at Falconer Funeral Home, 251 W Juniper Ave, Gilbert AZ, from 6 to 8:00 PM. A Celebration of Ryan"s life will be held on Saturday February 11, 2012 at 1:00 PM at Sun Valley Community Church 456 East Ray Rd, Gilbert AZ. For additional information please visit www.falconerfuneralhome.com.