Ryan was born on January 19, 1972, to Kent and Elaine Haarberg, in Imperial, Nebraska. He spent his early years in southwest Nebraska and graduated from Wauneta High School with the Class of 1990. He continued his education at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, where he earned his undergraduate degree before going on to receive a master’s degree in Computer Science.

Ryan built a career in information technology that took him across the Midwest and beyond. He worked in computer technology support at several colleges before continuing his work in IT departments for businesses in Nebraska, Indiana, California, and South Dakota. No matter where life took him, Ryan was known for his intelligence, curiosity, and willingness to help others navigate the ever-changing world of technology.

While Ryan enjoyed learning and sharing knowledge, his greatest joy came from his family. He dearly loved his nieces and nephews and took pride in being part of their lives. Whether attending sporting events, dance recitals, or celebrating other milestones, Ryan made every effort to show his support. And when distance kept him from attending in person, he remained connected—following their activities and accomplishments however he could. Ryan had a remarkable curiosity about the world and loved sharing his interests with others, especially his nieces and nephews. Having worked with NASA during his career, he would bring them NASA stickers every visit and share stories and information about space. As the nieces and nephews grew older, he would continue to periodically send updates about whatever had captured his interest at that moment- a beautiful landscape, wildlife he spotted, an interesting article, a joke he thought they would enjoy, or photos from wherever he happened to be living and working. It was his way of staying connected and inviting them into his world.

Whether discussing gardening, nutrition and diets, NASA and space exploration, or sharing stories and sights from the places he lived, Ryan found joy in learning and teaching. He was always eager to pass along an interesting fact, a new perspective, or something he had recently discovered.

Ryan will be remembered for his brilliant mind, his endless curiosity, and his desire to share what fascinated him with others. He had a unique way of finding wonder in the world and inviting those he loved to wonder alongside him. His family will remember him whenever they see a NASA sticker, hear an interesting fact, encounter a beautiful view worth sharing, or receive a message that simply says, “I thought you’d find this interesting.”

Though his time with us was far too short, the knowledge he shared, the encouragement he gave, and the relationships he nurtured will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Ryan is preceded in death by his maternal and paternal grandparents, and sister, Rhonda Haarberg.

Those left to celebrate Ryan’s life are his parents Kent and Elaine Haarberg of Kearney, NE; brothers, Randy (Jackie) Haarberg of Kirksville, MO, Rod (Liz) Haarberg of Kearney, NE; sister, Renea (Eric) Troudt of Gretna, NE; Nieces and Nephews, Rad Haarberg, Amanda Starks, Sasha Haarberg, Kelsie McManus, Bailey Ketelsen, Sydney Troudt, Heinrich Haarberg, Margaret Haarberg, Hazel Haarberg, and Chandler Haarberg along with some great nephews and nieces.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be sent to Mercy Meals of Southwest Nebraska.