Ryan Keith Vankovich, 52, of Logan, passed away unexpectedly on May 14, 2026, leaving behind a cherished young son, his German Shepherd Banes, grieving family members, and lifelong friends, heartbroken that his life was taken far too soon.

Ryan will be remembered for his caring heart, strong spirit, and love of animals, especially cats and dogs. Born in Logan on June 1, 1973, and raised in Southern West Virginia, Ryan valued family, friendship, loyalty, freedom, fairness, and justice. Ryan graduated from Logan High School in 1991. After completing Conductor Training School at Marshall University, Ryan worked for CSX Transportation. He was passionate about bodybuilding and competed for the title of Mr. West Virginia. He also enjoyed wrestling and playing baseball.

Ryan was preceded in death by: His father, David Vankovich; his mother, Patty Baird Vankovich; his grandfather, Eugene Vankovich; his grandmother, Verla Vankovich; his aunt, Patsy Vankovich Adkins of Charleston, South Carolina; his grandfather, Virgil Baird; his grandmother, Loveda Baird; his aunt, Margie Ferguson; his sister, Angie Baird; his niece, Kataria Baird; and his sister, Lynzee Napier.

Ryan is survived by his beloved son, Brooks Vankovich, who was the pride and joy of his life, and by Brooks’ mother Amanda Vankovich, by his loving aunts, Jean Lee Vankovich Robinette of Huntington and Vicki Vankovich Ferrell of Logan, and by his cousins: Teresa Adkins of Charleston, South Carolina; Mike Robinette of Huntington; Jennifer Robinette of Huntington; Mitzi Ferrell Brammer of Charleston; Jodi Ferrell of Logan; and Stacy Ferguson and Stanley Ferguson, Jr., of Logan.

A private memorial for close friends and family members will be held at a later date.

To honor Ryan’s memory, donations can be made in his name to the Logan Paws Squad animal rescue group at paypal.me/thepawssquad or to Little Victories Animal Rescue by clicking on the “Donate” button at the top of their website.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Evans Funeral Home & Cremation Services at Chapmanville, WV.