John Calvin Rye

John (JR) Calvin Rye, a beloved husband, father, brother, Papa, uncle and friend left this earth into his eternal life on June 19*, 2025 at the age of 71.

JR was born April 9*, 1954 in Billings, MT to Roy and Frances (Miklich) Rye. JR was the youngest born, an identical twin to his brother and lifelong friend Jim, while the oldest brother, Bill and older sister Nancy were trying to keep the famously known "Rye Twins" in check. From their mischievous time growing up, JR had jobs being a paper boy working for pennies, the Bowling alley keeping score and spent many summers in Melstone working for local ranchers and living with his special Aunt Edna and Uncle Oscar. Dad loved everything about the small town of the blue and gold and passed that love down onto us kids. From basketball games/tournaments, staying with cousins and friends who became family, firehall get togethers, dancing and visiting with everyone, it truly was his second home. Dad never missed a basketball game or tournament and was the first person to call when they won celebrating.

In 1974, JR met Tammy (Barta) Rye, the love of his life and fierce foosball goalie at the Sunset Bowling Alley. He knew instantly he loved that fiery competitiveness and natural beauty she carried and on July 7", 1979 they were married in Billings. To this almost 51 year relationship and 45 year union of marriage, two children were born, Amanda Marie in 1981 and Shane Edward in 1985. JR spent his whole life cheering on his children and the special quote that reads,

"My Dad clapped so loud for us that we never noticed who didn't" always reminds me of the unconditional love he had for his kids. From basketball games, shooting countless hoops at the park up the street, baseball coaching, catch in the backyard, gardening, bowling as a family, dirt road trips listening to classic country music and many hours of talking to us about life, my Dad's biggest joy and light in his eyes (besides hearing me sing at various events), were the fly fishing adventures that he and Shane shared. Fly fishing was Dad's biggest love, other than his family.

He built fly rods, taught classes and tied flies as a past time, that soon got Shane hooked on fishing. He taught Shane at a very young age, the beauty of the water and love of the outdoors.

The many lakes, rivers and streams they have pulled some of the biggest fish we've all ever seen out of, were something my Dad held on to, even later into his illness.

When Dad wasn't fishing, he worked various jobs and landed in the Trucking Business for over 25+ years. He was a hard working man that believed in doing the job right and timely. The relationships he created with people over the years, we couldn't walk into an

establishment without him knowing someone. If they didn't know Dad, then they knew his twin brother Jim.

That became a family joke that stuck for many years. Even though Dad retired in 2018, he could tell you every short cut and every street name in Billings from delivering freight. He had a mathematical mind that could remember not only number and figurations off the top of his head, but he never forgot a face or a name. He loved his memories at the bowling alley, baseball stats and shared the love he had for the game with all who would visit with him. He had the gift of gab, shared many years with so many close friends and family and was a true gentleman of this earth.

In 2008, Will Ryen Merkel, his first grandson and in 2012 his first granddaughter Koly Makay Merkel were born. He treasured being their Papa and was a huge supporter of all their activities.

He never got off the phone without saying "I love you!"

In 2019, JR was diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia/ Alzheimer's and even though this tragic disease took over his mind, his gigantic heart fought until his last breath.

JR is survived by his loving wife of almost 46 years Tammy Rye; daughter Amanda Merkel (Josh), grandchildren Will & Koly Merkel all of Miles City, MT, Son Shane Rye of Billings, MT;

Twin brother Jim Rye of Billings, Sister Nancy (Terry) Eby of Billings, in-law Ed & Cathy Barta of Billings, brother in-law Terry (Sandy) Barta of Billings, Tracy (Linda) Barta of Red Lodge.

Tim (Cindy) Barta of Billings, along with numerous nieces, nephews and special cousins.

JR was preceded in death by his parents Roy & Frances Rye, brother Bill Rye and niece Amy (Eby) Ponzillo.

"Eventually all things merge into one and a river runs through it"

Gone too soon, but never forgotten!