Stanthorpe man Shane ‘Jingles’ Ryan remembered after sudden death

A man affectionately known as ‘Jingles’ has been remembered as a kind soul and unforgettable presence after his sudden death. FULL STORY HERE.

Many Stanthorpe community members are reeling after the loss of local legend Shane 'Jingles' Ryan.

The Stanthorpe community has been left heartbroken after the sudden death of local legend Shane Ryan.

The 55-year-old was known affectionately as ‘Jingles’, a nickname that stuck like glue as an ode to the treasures that dangled off his favourite hat.

Describing him as “the reincarnation of Bob Marley” Shane’s son Kaisey said he would forever carry with him his father’s unforgettable presence.

“Nothing could get to him, he was just this happy being,” he said.

Many of Kaisey’s fondest memories of his dad involved the many “wanders” they would go on while he was growing up, striking up a memory of a four hour hike home after their car had broken down.

Many Stanthorpe community members are reeling after the loss of local legend Shane 'Jingles' Ryan.

“Every time (with dad) was different, there was always a party, the (memories) all stick out,” he said.

The sudden loss of their father has devastated the Ryan family, and the community of Stanthorpe, with many taking to Facebook to express their shock and condolences.

Many described Shane as “a kind soul” who never hesitated to stop and say hello if he passed you by.

For Kaisey, having to accept that his kindred-spirited father would never surprise him at his front door has been an overwhelming burden to bear.

“Just knowing he’s not going to turn up randomly,” he said.

“Myself, I’m falling apart.”

Kaisey wanted to clear public speculation and confirm that there was no foul play involved in his father’s sudden death.

Shane 'Jingles' Ryan got his quirky nickname from the many collections that hung off his hat.

Shane was found by Stanthorpe police on January 27 and a post-mortem had determined his cause of death was hyperglycaemia.

Kaisey said his father had only recently been diagnosed with high blood sugar and was beginning treatment.

Shane is survived by his adult children Jamie, Taylor, Kaisey and Kirra, their children and many of the adoring members of the Stanthorpe community.

A GoFundMe has been set up by Shane’s eldest son Jamie to help relieve funeral costs for their family.