Our Staff

Cynthia Ryan

Owner, Funeral Director

Thank you for visiting Chet Ryan Mortuary’s website. We are proud to be the only mortuary in Nevada owned and operated by a Nevada native. We are very proud of our heritage and continue to keep the on-going family traditions that my grandfather started here so many years ago. You can rest assured we will assist you in creating a personalized, peaceful tribute to honor the life of your loved one. From the personal touches that mean so much to compassionate guidance through the decision-making process, our family values will be a part of all we do for you:

Honesty
Integrity
Trust
Attention to detail
Our services are available as needed, 24 hours a day, every day.

Cheryl K. Ryan

Funeral Assistant

Cheryl was born to Chet and Gert Ryan in Nevada, Iowa, and the youngest of three children. She attended Nevada’s schools and graduated from Nevada High School in 1978. Cheryl was a graduate of Patricia Stevens Business and Finishing College in Omaha, NE. Growing up with a grandfather and father as funeral directors she worked closely with the family business. In February of 1985, she assisted Chet in opening Chet Ryan Mortuary and worked with him until 1988 when her daughter Nicole was born. Her family relocated when an out of state job opportunity arose. In 2006, Cheryl returned to Iowa and rejoined the family business, now owned by her sister Cynthia. She has one daughter Nicole Ryan who is in graduate school at Iowa State University and works for the D.O.T. in Ames. Cheryl joined Allen L. Kockler accounting firm full time in January of 2011. Cheryl enjoys spending time with her family, taking walks, riding with Al on his motorcycle, and traveling.

Steve Smith

Fleet Manager

Steve was born in Clarion, Iowa to Roland and Norma “Jean” Smith. When he was a young child his family relocated to Nevada where Steve attended and graduated from Nevada High School in 1973. Steve joined the Nevada Police Department in 1979 as a police officer and has remained employed there ever since. Steve married Sherri Robertson and together they have two sons Brett Smith and Michael (Jennifer) Smith; two grandchildren Maddox and Ross. Steve and Sherri are members of the Memorial Lutheran Church in Nevada. He enjoys spending time with his family, being a grandpa, working at Chet Ryan Mortuary, and riding his Harley.