Ryan Lee McDonald, age 45, of Des Moines, Iowa, passed away on June 14, 2024. He was born on September 22, 1978. Ryan was the beloved husband of Aimee McDonald, loving father of Benjamin McDonald, step-father of Maxwell Smith and Harrison Smith, and son of Gerald McDonald. He was preceded in death by his son Zachary James McDonald; mother, Deb McDonald; grandparents, Douglas Ankenbauer and Cleo Lehrkamp Ankenbauer; aunt, Tina Crise and uncle, Kenneth Ankenbauer

Ryan pursued his education at Iowa State University for his undergraduate studies and later obtained a master's degree from Southern New Hampshire University. He dedicated his career to Adult & Teen Challenge, where he made a lasting impact.

He was a member of Reach Church, where he found solace and community. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in memory of Ryan may be made to Aimee McDonald C/O Overton Funeral Home to provide continued support for his son. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 7 p.m. Friday, June 21, 2024 at Reach Church 2725 Merle Hay Road Des Moines, Iowa.  The family will greet friends prior to services from 5 to 7 p.m. at the church.