The Moville, Iowa, community is mourning the heartbreaking death of Ryan Arthur Putze, a beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend who passed away following a reported accident in October 2026. He was 24 years old. His unexpected passing has left his family, friends, former classmates, and loved ones devastated as they come together to honor his remarkable life.
Born on December 4, 2001, in Sioux City, Iowa, Ryan was raised in the countryside of Moville, where he developed a love for farming, working outdoors, and building things alongside his father. His hardworking nature, kindness, unforgettable hugs, and wonderful sense of humor made him deeply cherished by everyone who knew him.
Ryan graduated from Woodbury Central High School in 2020 before attending Iowa State University, where he earned degrees in Finance and Agricultural Business in 2024. Following graduation, he worked as a loan portfolio manager at Northwest Bank in Le Mars, Iowa. He later pursued his passion for independent contracting, turning his remarkable craftsmanship into a full-time entrepreneurial career.
A young man of strong Catholic faith, Ryan recently joined the Knights of Columbus and regularly volunteered at church, county fairgrounds, and wherever someone needed assistance. He enjoyed hunting, fishing with his younger sisters, carpentry, baking bread, and taking road trips with his brother Mark.
Above everything, Ryan treasured his family. As the middle child of nine siblings, he shared a special relationship with each of them. His affectionate personality, playful nicknames, long phone conversations, and warm embraces created memories his loved ones will carry forever.
In an emotional tribute, a loved one described Ryan as a brown-eyed young man who loved back scratches and gave the most unforgettable hugs. She expressed immense pride in the man he had become while acknowledging the heartbreak of watching his parents and siblings navigate their grief.
Ryan is survived by his parents, Matthew and Angela Putze; siblings Emily Obermier, Mark Putze, Michelle Kruse, Suzanne Strong, Sarah Putze, Mary Putze, Rachel Putze, and Seth Putze; nieces Vivian Obermier and Palmer Kruse; grandparents Ray and Linda Brown; and numerous extended family members and friends.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents Edward and Rita Schmalen and Arthur Putze.
According to the initial funeral announcement, arrangements were pending with Nicklas D. Jensen Funeral Home of Moville.
During this incredibly difficult time, heartfelt condolences are extended to Ryan’s parents, siblings, relatives, classmates, and the entire Moville community.
Although Ryan’s life ended far too soon, his faith, generosity, remarkable talents, and unconditional love will continue to inspire everyone who knew him.
Rest in peace, Ryan Arthur Putze. Your hugs, laughter, kindness, and beautiful spirit will be forever missed and never forgotten.
