Brett Ryan

From a young age, Brett was a passionate hockey player. As a child, he played minor hockey, where he nurtured both his skills and his love for the game. That passion carried into adulthood, where he played in an adult recreational league alongside friends and coworkers. He also served as a dedicated referee with Hockey Alberta, contributing to the game in yet another meaningful way.

Before joining the police service, Brett worked as a paramedic, serving communities in northern Alberta and the City of Edmonton. Whether on the ice, in the field, or in uniform, Brett was always a role model—mentoring others and exemplifying integrity, generosity, and leadership.

Brett’s many interests and talents reflected his zest for life. He enjoyed skydiving, traveling, baseball, fishing, golfing, hunting, and, most importantly, spending time with his wife, dogs, and close friends. His energy, enthusiasm, and warmth made him a positive light to everyone around him.

Brett was a humble, thoughtful and deeply caring individual. He was a devoted husband, a soon-to-be father, a loving brother and uncle and an incredible friend. At the time of his death, Brett and his wife Ashley were expecting their first child—a beautiful, healthy baby boy born six months later. We know, without a doubt, that his son was Brett’s greatest pride and joy.

In 2024, the CST. Brett Ryan Play It Forward Foundation was established to raise funds and provide support for children’s sports in the community—continuing Brett’s legacy of mentorship, leadership, and love for youth athletics.

Together, over the last two years, Ashley and the City of Spruce Grove worked together to bring to life a vision that now stands as a powerful tribute: the CST. Brett Ryan Community Arena. Each item in the display case tells a piece of Brett’s story—from the handmade challenge coin holder created by his Aunt Lisa, to Brett’s own skates, untied just as he last left them and the bronzed forge cap honouring the career he cherished.

Thank you for your continued support. May this arena be a place where the community gathers, friendships are built and Brett’s spirit lives on—bringing people together, just as he always did.