With profound sorrow, the community of Angola, Indiana, is mourning the loss of Ryan Waite, who tragically passed away over the weekend due to injuries sustained in a farming accident. Ryan’s passing has left an immeasurable void in the hearts of his family, friends, coworkers, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Ryan was a longtime and beloved member of the Pranger Enterprises family, where he had recently been honored as the first employee to reach 30 years of service.
That milestone was a testament not just to his loyalty and work ethic, but to the deep respect and admiration he earned throughout his career. His colleagues at Pranger remember him not only for his wealth of knowledge and professional dedication but for the joy and humor he brought into every space he entered.
In a heartfelt statement, Pranger Enterprises shared:
“With heavy hearts, Pranger Enterprises shares the sad news that Ryan Waite has passed away due to injuries suffered in an accident at his farm last weekend. Ryan was a tremendous coworker and follower of Jesus.
He brought so much joy to everyone he met. Just one year ago, we celebrated him as the ‘First 30-Year Employee’ of Pranger Enterprises. Our company will never be the same without his shenanigans, knowledge, wit, and example.”
Ryan’s faith was a cornerstone of his life. He was known as a man who lived with purpose, humility, and integrity, guided by his belief in Jesus Christ. His gentle spirit and deep-rooted faith were evident in his interactions with others, offering encouragement, humor, and wisdom when it was needed most.
He led not only with experience and insight but with a quiet strength that inspired those around him. The accident that took Ryan’s life has sent ripples of grief through the entire Angola community and beyond.
Farming is a way of life that Ryan cherished, and he approached his work—both on the farm and at Pranger Enterprises—with care, skill, and pride. His unexpected passing has reminded many of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing each moment.
To those who knew him, Ryan was more than just a coworker or neighbor. He was a friend, a mentor, a man of faith, and a source of comfort and laughter. Whether through a well-timed joke, a helping hand, or a word of encouragement, Ryan made an impact that will not be forgotten.
As his friends and family navigate this devastating loss, their faith remains a source of strength. In their announcement, Pranger Enterprises included a verse from Scripture that captures the spirit of Ryan’s life and the hope held by those grieving him:
“Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope. For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him.” — 1 Thessalonians 4:13–14
Plans for funeral services are currently pending and will be shared once finalized. In the meantime, the Waite family and the Pranger Enterprises community ask for continued prayers and support as they grieve the loss of a truly irreplaceable man.
Ryan Waite’s legacy of hard work, faith, friendship, and laughter will live on in the countless lives he touched. Though gone too soon, he will never be forgotten.
