Ryan Scott Dilks, 37, of Northfield, NJ passed away on Monday, May 30 surrounded by his loved ones after a tragic accident at work. Ryan was born in Somers Point at Shore Memorial Hospital on April 23, 1985 and grew up in Northfield. He attended high school at Mainland Regional High School and obtained a GED. After high school, he began working with his father, Mike, in the family business as a plumber.
Ryan had a “take no prisoners” attitude towards life and lived it to the fullest. He had a great laugh that would always brighten people’s days. Those that knew Ryan best often spoke about how kind he was and how funny. Ryan was always quick witted and ready with a joke. Most people who knew Ryan will remember how animated and full of life he always was. It was this characteristic that drew so many people to him. People remember “Ryan Stories” even if they weren’t there for the first telling because he put so much of himself into them. He was always available to provide an ear to his friends and loved ones, and often gave surprisingly good advice.
Ryan loved to be outdoors and enjoyed hiking and going to the beach with loved ones. He especially loved to go to the dog beach in EHT with his dog, Luda, and throw the ball for her. He loved music and attending concerts and shows. He loved to share the songs he loved with people, and many of them learned a new appreciation for a new song or style of music because of Ryan.
Recently, Ryan took up woodworking and resin projects and began making handcrafted art pieces. He fabricated live-edge tables, charcuterie boards, coasters, and rolling trays. He was self-taught and was so proud of all the beautiful artwork he made. It was wonderful to see his joy at finding a hobby he really loved. Anyone who owns one of the pieces he made will treasure it forever.
Ryan is survived by his dog Luda, his grandmother Vickie Dilks, father Michael Dilks, mother Janet Dilks, sister Kimberly Dilks, uncle & aunt Larry & Betty Dilks, aunt Linda Butler, and cousins Kristin Declementi & her son Frankie, Erica Rock and her children Kaylee and Jack, and Jackie Rock (Juan Leonor) and their children Sophia and Nicholas. Ryan was also going to be a father to a daughter due to be born in September of this year.
A celebration of life will be held June 20th from 2:00pm-4:00pm at the Pleasantville Yacht Club. Release of his ashes will be private for family and close friends.
As Ryan was a lifelong animal lover, in lieu of flowers please donate in his name to the Humane Society of Atlantic County at 1401 Absecon Blvd, Atlantic City, NJ 08401.