Ryan F. Gilhooley

Ryan Fitzgerald Gilhooley, age 48, passed away June 19, 2025, surrounded by family and friends.

Ryan was the loving and devoted husband of Sara Emmerich and the proud father of Michael, Ian, and Emme, all of whom who were the center of his world. He was the cherished son of Dennis Gilhooley Sr. and Carol Gilhooley (formerly Luby), and the much-loved younger brother of Dennis Jr. (Nicole) and Sean (Dawn). He was a thoughtful and fun uncle to Joseph, Daniel, Catherine, Gabrielle, Izabella, and Madeline, and the kind of cousin and nephew who made every get-together more memorable.

He was also a son-in-law with a heart-of-gold to Brian and Angie Emmerich, and a treasured brother-in-law to Cailie Emmerich and Nina Becker (Ian).

A digital marketer in the travel industry by profession and an artist at heart, Ryan brought creativity, curiosity, and joy into everything he did. He had a successful career, a sense of humor, loved watching Cubs games and Arsenal soccer. He had a deep passion for music—producing original house mixes as rhythmrobot and proudly shared his talents within his community. He was equally at home building digital campaigns at work as he was digging through crates for the perfect vinyl record. He is also a graduate of St. Joseph High School and Lewis University where he earned a B.A. in Broadcasting and worked at the University radio station.

Throughout his life, he remained a constant source of laughter, creativity, loyalty, and love. Tall, handsome, with a big laugh and a beautiful soul, Ryan had a way of lighting up every room he entered. He made fast friends—whether through school, work--even in the car line at his daughter's preschool or at the grocery store! His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, the joy he brought, and the music he made. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered. Please pray for Ryan's loved ones and lift a glass to toast a life well-lived.