Services for Henry Manfred Rylko, 73, of Lawrence, will be at 11 am, Saturday January 25, 2020 at St. John The Evangelist Catholic Church. Henry passed away peacefully Sunday evening, surrounded by loved ones.
Henry was born November 27, 1946 in Trostberg, Germany to Louise and Felix Rylko. He moved to the United States when he was just three years old. He grew up in Hutchinson, KS, moving to Lawrence to attend the University of Kansas. Henry earned his Master’s degree in History from KU in 1977.
He married Beverly June Rylko December 28, 1968. Henry and Beverly spent over 46 years together. Beverly preceded Henry in death on March 10, 2014.
Henry worked as an IT Specialist at the Environmental Protection Agency until he retired in 2014. Henry had many hobbies including gardening on his acre of property, cooking, and reading. He had many lifelong friends whom he met with regularly for book club, opera club, and other social events.
He is survived by his mother, Louise Rylko of Owasso, OK, two sisters: Bonita, of Fresno, CA, and Rita, of Owasso, a brother, John (Margret), of Owasso, three daughters: Sophia (Liam), Amelia, and Rose of Lawrence, and four grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his father, Felix, sister, Angela, and his wife, Beverly. Henry will be remembered for his kind and thoughtful personality, his love of life, and his sense of humor. He will be missed by many.
Memorial contributions may be made to Justice Matters or Van Go Inc., sent in care of Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home, P.O. Box 1260, Lawrence, KS 66044.
I just found out today of Henry’s passing. I’m really at a loss of words,. We worked together at the EPA and my memories focus on an energetic and positive individual who always had a smile and a good word. He was of a finer sort! Henry will be dearly missed by his family and many friends.
Henry’s family and friends,
I worked with Henry all the time he was with EPA. I found him to have all of the great characteristics others have so eloquently stated in their messages. At his funeral, we got a further glimpse (two beautiful elegies and slide presentation) into Henry’s rich and well lived life – opera, gardening, book club, pianist, bridge playing, who-done-it parties, any occasion parties, family, and so much more). Thank you for sharing this. My condolences to all. Peace Henry.
I was lucky enough to start work with Henry almost at the same time when we were at the EPA. His wry sense of humor, and an always look on the bright side outlook made each work experience or conversations a joy. I can still hear his chuckling laugh in my mind’s eye. He and I would chat about many things as we both grew up in the Hutch area and both had been History majors who migrated to I.T.
I saw him last a few years ago at a folk concert in Lawrence. It was like we had only been apart a few months and not 15 years. He will be cherished and missed by all of us who knew him.
I can only echo what my colleagues have said about Henry. I wonderful, beautiful person who had an infectious smile. His presence brightened the day with his professional and personal skills. May the peace come to each of you as you struggle through this time.
I was shocked to hear the news. I loved working and having the pleasure to work with him at EPA. He was such a kind person and had a calm about him whenever I was in his presence. He was so easy to talk to and had a kind soul. He will be dearly missed. My condolences to his family and prayers sent.
So very sorry for your loss. Henry was always a ray of sunshine. Never rattled when faced with frustrated non-technical people, he would wave his hand and cure whatever bug might be plaguing us. He left a large void when he retired from EPA. The world could use more like Henry.
Henry was a wonderfully kind, gentle and funny man. Working with him was such a pleasure. This world needs more people like Henry.
I can also affirm that Henry was uniquely kind and joyful in every interaction I ever witnessed. No matter how bad things were you could always count on Henry to work to make things better. No one will ever be able to replace him. He has been and will continue to be missed.
My Condolences to the family. Henry was a good man, a kind gentle soul, and a very humble man. Henry I will never forget you, you was such a great human begin. You will be missed dearly.
I worked with Henry at EPA. I am very sorry to hear about his passing. My prayers and thoughts go out to the family. Henry was a good person and always kind to everyone. When calling Henry for IT help at work he was always patient, kind, professional and knowledgeable while always having a great smile and attitude to share. He treated everyone with respect and the same level of great help never leaving you without a solution. When bumping into Henry somewhere at work he was always the same pleasant way having a smile, positive attitude and pleasant conversation. He made you laugh and feel better no matter how bad of a day you may be having. He was a pleasure to know and was liked by many and I’m sure will be missed by more. People like Henry make the world a brighter place. I am very sorry for the loss. Heaven just got a good person who will make it brighter and happier.
I had the pleasure of working with Henry for over 14 years. He was always in a good mood, even when technology wasn’t being his friend at the time. I am sure he will be missed by everyone who knew him.
I worked at EPA with Henry. He was always so friendly and helpful to all. My condolences to the family.
I only had the privilege of working with Henry for a couple years, but he was an incredibly kind man who loved and spoke highly of his family. My thoughts will be with the family.
I am truly saddened to hear of Henry’s passing. Many years ago, Henry and I carpooled to and from work at EPA. No matter what my mood was when we got in the car together, Henry could make it better. He was one of the kindest and funniest people I’ve ever known, and he has remained one of my favorites all these years. My sincere sympathies to his family, friends and any other lives he touched.
I had the great privilege of working with Henry at EPA for many years. He was always so friendly and helpful. He shared his smile and laughter with everyone. I know he will be missed. My prayers and sympathy to his family.
Amelia, Rose and Sophia,
We remember coming to your house when Kelsey and Rose were at Truman State together. I think it was for Octoberfest. We didn’t know anyone except Rose then, but we were welcomed to the party as new friends. Your mom & dad both took time to introduce us around and make sure we had food and drinks. It was such a warm and comforting feeling that we always wished we had more opportunities to spend time with Henry and Beverly. In the ensuing years, we have gotten to know Amelia better and consider her one of our family. Please accept our sincere condolences in the loss of your father. Both of your parents were caring and loving individuals who gave you the precious legacy of warm, funny and loving family memories. Hopefully these will help sustain you as you grieve.
Such a beautiful obituary. Praying for you all in this time of great loss
Awesome post! Keep up the great work! 🙂
Sophia I’m so sorry for your loss my condolences to you and the family but I’m also glad I had the chance to meet him and he was one lovely man may he rest in peace
Sophia, Rose, and Amelia, so sorry for your father passing away. I remember the fun times that I had at your house and your dad welcomed me with open arms! He was a nice and kind hearted man and I do liked our conversations, when I got the chance to visit on my leave time. Sending prayers to you and your families in this time of need.
God bless and care for the family
From the first time I met Henry I felt welcomed with warmth and generosity and acceptance for who I am. I already miss his presence, his laugh and smile and the ease with which he carried himself. Love you girls and I wish you peace in your hearts. Your mom and dad are always with you. love
So sorry to hear this. Henry was a very sweet man. I always thought a lot of him and your mother. Now together forever.
I am so sorry to hear of your sad loss of Henry. Condolences to you and your family and friends.
sophia and rose,
sending my deepest sympathies with the loss of your father. many thoughts and prayers are sent your way.
Sophia, Amelia & Rose,
Henry was a man who spread joy just through his personality. We always enjoyed spending time with your family and enjoying everybody’s company. Henry was so proud of you girls, he would just beam when he spoke of you. Unfortunately, another ray of sunshine has left our lives and he will be direly missed.
Dear Sophia and family,
I’m so sorry for your loss.