Ryan Lee Mirkin, 23

LIBERTY - Ryan Lee Mirkin, 23, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Dec. 16, at the Hospice House, surrounded by his family and friends, following an eight-month battle with adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC).
Ryan was born March 28, 1986 in Youngstown, the beloved son of Jeff and Carol Mirkin.
He graduated with honors in 2005 from Liberty High School and earned a BS in health care administration and long-term care this year from Ohio University. While at OU, he was a member of the Alpha Epsilon Pi Fraternity and the Sustainable Living Organization.
Ryan was smart, curious and eager to learn new ideas. He enjoyed reading, walking in the park, swimming, spending time with friends and laughing with his family.
He had a passion for helping others and particularly enjoyed spending time with the elderly. Even while struggling with his own illness, he interned at Heritage Manor, where he took great pleasure in getting to know the residents and working with the staff.
Above all, Ryan was kind, courteous, caring and compassionate. He had a genuine interest in others and cared deeply for his family and friends. His infectious smile and keen sense of humor remained with him through his illness.
There was only one Ryan. He had the rare gift of making people happy. He will be greatly missed by everyone who was fortunate enough to have known him.
Besides his parents, he is survived by his sister, Casey; maternal grandfather, Arthur Greenfield (and friend Judy Davis); paternal grandparents, Sam and Dolores Mirkin; as well as numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Family members who have passed on before him include his great-grandparents and maternal grandmother, Rena Greenfield.
Calling hours are today, Dec. 18, from 11 a.m. to noon at the Temple El Emeth, followed immediately by a memorial service at noon.
The family requests that contributions be made to Hospice House.