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Realbuto, Ryan Pippo
Ryan Pippo Realbuto was tragically taken from his family and friends on January 19th, 2024, in Washington, D.C. at the age of 23. Ryan is predeceased by his grandparents, Pasquale and Maria Realbuto and his loyal dog Brady; survived by his loving parents, Pippo and Janet; devoted brothers, Christian and Evan; grandparents, Armand and Teresa Fenicchia; aunts and uncles, Filippo and Elio (Judy) Realbuto, Karen and Lynn Fenicchia; cousins, Elio (Amy), Anthony (Jessica), Caroline, Teresa Claire and Kyle; too many loving family members in Sicily to name; his fellow Cap Corps volunteers and the Friar community.
Ryan is a 2019 graduate of Pittsford Mendon High School and a 2023 graduate of St. Bonaventure University where he graduated cum laude with a degree in Sociology and Criminology.
It was during his high school years as a member of the Church of Transfiguration’s Youth Group that Ryan’s faith journey began. Through Youth Group, Ryan attended many retreats and, in 2017, traveled to the National Catholic Youth Conference in Indianapolis. Ryan also attended week-long immersion experiences at House of Mercy where he volunteered with Morning Star, a foster home for medically fragile children, and Bethany House, a shelter for women and children. You would also have heard Ryan’s amazing voice while he sang in the church choir.
At Mendon, it was volunteering through the Rotary Interact Club where Ryan began his love of service. Ryan served on the club’s leadership team and logged more hours of service than any of its members during both his sophomore and junior years. Ryan participated in musicals and sang in multiple choral and acapella groups at Mendon. Ryan also ran on the Mendon cross country and track & field teams. In 2019, Ryan was named as a member of the 2019 “Hands of Christ” class, in which the Bishop of Rochester affirms high school seniors who have been actively involved in their churches, homes, schools and communities.
When he arrived at St. Bonaventure University, Ryan found a new home. Ryan was an active member of the Mt. Irenaeus community. Ryan loved Mt. Irenaeus and proudly served as a Mountain Community Leader attending retreats and guiding others as a student minister. Ryan cherished his retreat home. During his senior year at Bonaventure, Ryan was named Mount Irenaeus Student of the Year. Ryan also loved volunteering at the Warming House, a student-run soup kitchen serving the Olean community. You would often find Ryan singing at weekend mass through the music ministry or sharing his faith at a Men’s Prayer meeting. Incoming freshmen met Ryan through his role as a Peer Coach, where he mentored and provided support for new Bonnies. Ryan also was a member of Bona Buddies where he built relationships and served as a positive role model for children in the Olean community. In between semesters, Ryan traveled with other Bonnies to Philadelphia and volunteered at the St. Francis Inn. The summer before his senior year, Ryan spent time working at Canticle Farm – a vegetable farm sponsored by the Franciscan Sisters of Allegany that provides food to those in need.
After graduation, Ryan decided to commit to a year of service and joined the Capuchin Volunteer Corps (Caps Corps) in Washington, D.C. – a year long Catholic Volunteer Program for young adults to live in an intentional community while serving those in need. It was here that Ryan really thrived. Ryan’s service site was Don Bosco Cristo Rey High School, a Catholic college-preparatory school for young men and women with limited economic means. At Don Bosco, Ryan built relationships with underserved students and helped supervise the Corporate Work Study Program. In this program, Ryan helped students prepare for college and learn job-readiness skills. Ryan immersed himself at Don Bosco, blossoming in his new community. Ryan proudly wore his Don Bosco polo and cheered on his students during their soccer games or social gatherings on the weekend.
Ryan loved taking pictures of nature on his commute and would often share them with his family. He loved spending time at the friary, the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception and attending social events at the Catholic University of America. He loved exploring DC museums and attending concerts at the Kennedy Center with his fellow Cap Corp volunteers. Ryan also looked forward to retreats at the Capuchin Retreat House in Pennsylvania – taking countless pictures of the beautiful landscape. Through Cap Corps, Ryan forged strong friendships and bonds with his fellow volunteers.
When visiting home, Ryan loved watching sports. It was always fun watching Ryan bantering with his brothers since they all supported different teams (although unpopular in upstate New York, Ryan was a huge New England Patriots fan). Ryan enjoyed working out with weights and playing pick-up basketball. He liked to ski in the winter and kayak or eat Sharks Ice Cream with his grandparents during the summer. Playing soccer with his Papa and brothers was always great fun. He loved listening to music. Ryan also loved taking walks and going on hikes with his family.
Ryan cherished the bonds and memories he was able to forge with his Papa’s relatives during visits to Sicily. He loved playing in the sea with his brothers and creating many wonderful memories with his relatives. Ryan loved his Sicilian roots, learning about family traditions, and was always willing to try a new dish. Pasta and gelato were his favorites. Here, Ryan was adored by his relatives.
Ryan was never afraid to give anything a try. Through his determination and perseverance, Ryan overcame many obstacles and challenges along the way. He lived a life of great meaning and impact. Ryan was kind, thoughtful, gentle, and caring. He was pure and had an indescribable innocence, plus a deep faith. One would have never expected that he touched so many lives with his quiet, humble presence.
Since Ryan’s passing, his family has received countless stories that speak to Ryan’s character and how he was a great friend to so many. Although he has been taken way too soon, Ryan touched so many and left behind a beautiful legacy. Ryan was pure, caring, thoughtful and he had an infectious simile. It is incredible how many people Ryan touched and how well he shared his love. We would give anything to see his smile and hear his laugh.
If Ryan could be remembered for one thing, it would be the love he had for his family. He brought us such joy. Ryan, there is a void with your absence that simply no words can capture. The world has lost a beautiful soul, and we will miss you more than we could have ever imagined. Thank you, Ryan, for all the wonderful moments we shared. You enriched all our lives and brought us so much joy. Our hearts are forever broken. We will never be the same. We love you.
Family and friends are invited to call Friday, January 26th 2-7pm – Richard H. Keenan Funeral 7501 Pittsford-Palmyra Rd. Fairport, NY 14450. Ryan’s Memorial Mass will be held Saturday January 27th at 11:00 AM at the Church of the Transfiguration in Pittsford with Interment following at Pittsford Cemetery (38 Washington St. Pittsford NY).
In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to consider a donation in Ryan’s name towards organizations that deeply impacted his formation:
Capuchin Franciscan Volunteer Corps (CFVC)
16406 Marquis Ave Cleveland, OH 44111
Don Bosco Cristo Rey High School
1010 Larch Ave. Takoma Park, MD 20912
Online Donations: www.dbcr.org/donate
The Warming House Soup Kitchen:
St. Bonaventure University
The Warming House
PO Box AR St. Bonaventure NY, 14778
Comments
33 responses to “Realbuto, Ryan Pippo”
I was a classmate of Ryan’s through middle school and high school and I have been truly shocked in hearing this news. Ryan and I were both in chorus and involved in the musicals throughout our time at school and he brought such a wonderful presence into every room he was in. He was a genuine kind soul who always showed so much care for those around him. I’m deeply saddened by the unfair violence that has led to the loss of such a valuable member of so many communities and someone with a truly kind and joyful heart. My thoughts are with your family as you navigate this tragedy.
I had the privilege of being friends with Ryan for the majority of my life. From as long as I can remember Ryan was a caring and kind hearted person, always smiling and making the most of every day. He was a great friend and never failed to make me laugh from the days of attending our siblings concerts to the time that we graduated. To his family, words can’t describe how incredibly sorry I am for your loss, and my thoughts and prayers are with you. He was a great soul and will always be remembered
I am so very saddened to read that such a wonderful young man’s life was taken from a loving family, and a world that so needed a kind soul like Ryan. I did not know him, but my heart breaks for his mother and father and siblings and all who knew him, and all that will never know him because of the lawless behavior running rampant in our country, total lack of care for a life. May God cradle his loving family in his arms and may God help carry them through the days and road a head. There are no words that can ever make this better, but try to take comfort in knowing Ryan in heaven with Jesus, and some day you all will be united again. As for he who committed this act he will have an eternity to answer.
I know Ryan Realbuto through the eyes of his Mother, Janet Fenicchia Realbuto, my most wonderful colleague at Sutherland High School! She shared her son with us and all of the new and exciting things he was experiencing as a young man. I believe he really found himself at St. Bonaventure, HIS college, as it should be, a feeling of home and warmth he experienced there. Ryan’s heart and spirit were apparent to all of us and we all knew of his tenacious way of working toward mastery of whatever he was doing.
I was at Ryan’s graduation party in 2019 from Mendon High School. On that day, he reveled in the joy his family had for him and all of his successes. It was HIS day and the smile on his face and the warmth of his heart radiated that day. I will never forgot that gentle smile of his.
I am so sorry that the world does not now have you in it. You, Ryan, are the sort that gives all hope for the future. You will be sorely missed but forever remembered. With love to all, MaryLynn Gleason
I remember searching conversations with Ryan both in and out of our class on the Way of Francis and Clare. He was a kind and gentle and beautiful soul. Eternal peace, dear brother. Bob Donius
We are truly saddened to hear about Ryan’s passing. Anna and I went to school with Ryan and also were in youth group and volunteered with him through the Church of Transfiguration. During the summer weeks at the Sisters of Saint Joseph convent Ryan showcased how much of an amazing person he was and how much he cared for everyone so deeply. Ryan put a smile on our faces and was so compassionate to those he helped. Ryan always had the ability to lighten up the room through laughter and his kindness, leaving a lasting impact on everyone. Anna and I will remember those days of painting the chapel at Bethany house and the joy we all shared together. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this tragedy.
We are devastated and heartbroken. Ryan was simply amazing — a beautiful young man. We are deeply sorry for this incredible loss and offer our sincere condolences. The Palma Family — Fran, Ric, and Alexandra
I’m so deeply saddened to hear about this tragic loss. I didn’t know Ryan at all, but his story truly hurt my heart. My condolences go out to his family and friends. I’m truly sorry this happened.
May Ryan’s beautiful example live on in the lives of the young people he worked with. We could all be more like Ryan, the world would be a better place. We are so sorry this happened and we are keeping you and your family in our prayers. Ryan was a great friend to our son Ben and was always kind and respectful to us. He had a beautiful way about him. No words can express how deeply saddened we are.
May God watch over Ryan and keep him in the palm of his hand. May his memory be eternal. And may God ease the the familys pain in the loss of this special young man.
To read of the light and beauty Ryan brought into this world makes a tragedy like this hard to process. What a beautiful soul he blessed the world with.
We are deeply sorry for your family’s loss. We are praying that God covers you with his grace and mercy. That he surrounds you with peace during this dark time. Sending love.
In loving memory of Ryan, though I didn’t have the privilege of knowing him personally, the stories of his selfless acts of kindness have deeply inspired me. His unwavering love for the poor and commitment to following in the footsteps of Saint Francis and Our Lord Jesus were truly remarkable. In a world that can sometimes feel indifferent, Ryan’s dedication to serving others with a heart full of love resonate profoundly. He embraced the teachings of Saint Francis, embodying the virtues of humility, compassion, and selflessness. Ryan’s legacy serves as a beacon, reminding us all of the transformative power of love and service. His life was a testament to the belief that each small act of kindness can make a significant difference in the lives of those less fortunate. As we celebrate the memory of this compassionate soul, let’s carry forward the inspiration he provided and find ways to bring light into the lives of others, following in Ryan’s footsteps and embodying the spirit of Saint Francis through Our Lord Jesus. With heartfelt condolences, and may his memory be eternal.
Sending you all our love and prayers. Wonderful memories of Ryan over the years. He always put a smile on my daughter Marissa’s face. They enjoyed times in choir and school musicals. And spent a lot of time in classes together. Janet I will always remember you fighting for the kids best interests. Making sure they got the help they needed!! And how proud you should be for what Ryan has accomplished!!! He was a very special person 🙏🏻❤️
Psalm 34:18
18 The Lord is near the brokenhearted; He saves those crushed in spirit.
What Ryan accomplished in 23 short years for his Savior would take most people ten life times to accomplish. Rest in peace Ryan Realabuto. I look forward to meeting one day when I am called home!
1 Thessalonians 4:13-14 | HCSB
13 We do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, concerning those who are asleep, so that you will not grieve like the rest, who have no hope. 14 Since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, in the same way God will bring with Him those who have fallen asleep through Jesus.
Thank you for sharing your son Ryan with the world. Writing an obituary is a difficult task for anyone in mourning, but is especially so for a parent. I know we are not to assume our loved ones are in heaven at the moment of dying, but it feels like this radiant “old soul” of a thoughtful, prayerful, joyful young man – is there and praying mightily for the comfort and peace of his beloved family on earth, and for the conversion and souls of the men involved in his tragic death. Ryan seems to have had a gift of drawing people to Christ and simplicity and community, from his childhood until now. (And perhaps his gift from heaven). Am praying for his parents, siblings, family, friends, and each person touched by a Ryan encounter or special moment of his encouragement. God rest his soul.
I don’t know Ryan or his family. He sounds like an absolutely wonderful young man. I am so so sorry for your family’s loss. Besides his family, who will miss him tremendously and always have a piece of their hearts missing, the underprivileged students attending the Washington DC, Don Bosco Cristo Rey HS are missing out on the mentorship and example of a person with a true servant’s heart. Ryan embodied Christ through service to others. He is a loss to all of us.
Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord,
and let Your perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul and the souls of all the faithful departed rest in peace. Amen.
God Bless from Texas
Sending my sincere condolences to Ryan’s family from England. Truly we live in a broken world. May Ryan intercede for us from Heaven. Requiescat in pace.
I’m so sad and can say that I have empathy for Ryan’s dear family. I am also the parent of a son who died way too soon – four years ago. There is no greater grief than to lose a child; however, I now am comforted that if my son didn’t get into Heaven immediately, he has been welcomed now. You had an amazing son, and I’m sure he went to be with God the moment this evil man took your son’s beautiful and so Christian life. His short life will be honored and remembered by those who knew him and those of us who have heard about him through these wonderful Catholic articles. Peace and love to all of you. Please find a Parent Grief Group. I have been helped by this group, and I highly recommend one to all parents in this club that no one wants to ever belong to. +JMJ+
I was touched so deeply by reading of your son’s tragic death….Our time on earth will soon be past only what’s done for Christ will last…..I can see his love for Christ shone in the hearts of all those he touched with the hand of God….rest assured he is now spending eternity in heaven with his loving heavenly Father. Praying for God’s peace and his eternal assurance upon all those mourning his passing this day…..Be encouraged an rest not in despair for our hope rests in Him.
Ryan, we are sure that you only came into the world to teach us love of neighbor, selfless service and love of Christ 😞 you left us a great void in our hearts, my daughter was one of the girls of Don Bosco Cristo Rey who helped me so much, she I have spoken wonderful things about you, your life is such an example to follow that you should be a saint. Thank you Ryan for coming into the world to teach us so much, we deeply regret the loss of your precious life, you remain in our hearts forever…rest in peace! We have your entire beautiful family in our thoughts and prayers. Janet, as a mother, I have no words of comfort for you, but keep in mind that your precious son is with God, without a doubt he had a direct pass.
Ryan’s life has been one of total service to the Lord. I am sure he would be very quick to forgive the person who killed him. Ryan would also not want us to grieve but to celebrate the man he was, the life he lived, and the reward of heaven he has earned. Matthew 24:42 “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come” and Matthew 25:21 “His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’. Ryan was one of a million and will be missed.
As an old Bonnie (Class of 1975) and former member of the Washington, D.C. community for 35 years, I am broken hearted to hear of Ryan’s passing.
I first thought, when reading about this terrible tragedy, was that Ryan was made in the likeness of St. Bonaventure’s patron saint, St. Francis of Assisi. Then I cried even more when I read his obituary, that he is predeceased by his loyal dog Brady. Those who know of St. Francis of Assisi are familiar with his love for animals.
Ryan truly did more kindness for people and this world in his short 23 years than the vast majority of us ! I give tremendous credit to the Realbuto family for raising such a wonderful son and human being ! May God Bless you and grace you in your grief for Ryan! I know that Ryan is with the Lord. The real tragedy is that he lived a wonderful life but way far too short on Earth !
Although I didn’t have the pleasure of knowing Ryan, I attended HS with his mom. After watching the tribute at St. Bonaventure online, it’s clear to see that he was a remarkable young man and was able to touch many hearts! Please accept my heartfelt condolences during this extremely difficult time. Also, I’d like the family to know that my own son is a priest in DC and is offering his Mass for Ryan tomorrow.
May God bless you all!
Lindy Pacelli
May GOD watch over Ryan and take care of his family in this tough time RIP
As a father of 6.. tears are rolling down my cheeks , what a beautiful boy he was and his family, from now on ryan will always be in my prayers
I am heartbroken for Ryan, for his family, for those of us perplexed, & disheartened living in a world we barely understand or recognize, trying to lead faith filled lives in a world, a culture intent it would seem, in tearing us apart.
God was with Ryan … and it was visible to all he encountered, in all that he did. I will use Ryan’s example & strive harder to let the love of Christ I carry, shine through my actions.
Please accept my heartfelt sympathies .
DCarroll
I remember picking up Ryan from his house to go to the YMCA back in high school many times. One time he even lent me tennis shoes; and when I heard about his passing I remembered how I had forgotten to return them for years. That really made me sad thinking of how those shoes sat in my house for years and that I hadn’t connected with him after high school. I can’t find the shoes now.
I recall having really nice conversations with his father at the Y when I would run into him as well. Me and some classmates were even invited to put together a band for his graduation party. I recall it being a gorgeous day out and seeing lots of friendly and familiar faces around his beautiful home. No one ever had anything bad to say about Ryan. My condolences to his immediate family. Especially to his brothers. I couldn’t imagine losing my younger brother. I am sorry for your loss.
I’m just so sorry for all of you. My heart hurts so much for you.
This is difficult Pippo. We pray for strength, and grace, for you and your family, during this very difficult time.
Ryan sounds like a very sweet soul. My connection to him is through a friend who is a Cap. Friar in Pittsburgh who asked me to pray for him and his family. I am sincerely grateful to learn about Ryan’s life and his service to so many. An outstanding young man in this world called back to his Father in Heaven far too soon for his Family on Earth. Godspeed.
Action is eloquence. Ryan’s deeds moved me, as i read the newspaper stories here in Washington and in the marvelous obituary.
I am moved to action, too.
I was deeply touched by Ryan’s life story when I read it tonight from an article posted on spiritdaily.com. I want to thank Ryan’s family for doing such a great job raising this very holy young man. Just think he spent his last hours on earth visiting and adoring Jesus. God bless Ryan’s family and I pass on my condolences from Canada.
I knew Ryan back when we went to youth group at church. I graduated high school in 2017, so I was a couple years ahead of him and we fell out of touch. He was a such good kid. So kind, very earnest and genuine. Ryan and I ended up spending a lot of time together. I went to Bethany House with him that first year with the SSJ summer service and then Morning Star in my final year. My final year of Search he was in my small group, and we sung in the choir together every other Sunday. Ryan was far braver than most young people. I recall him most vividly leading and singing bless the children during mass and helping me to vacuum spiders in the basement of morning star (something we were both squeamish about!). I’m devastated by his loss. It goes to show what a lasting impression and impact Ryan had on the lives of the people around him, even years down the line. Wishing for peace for Ryan and the Realbuto Family.