Ryan Daniel Platz

With heavy hearts we announce that Ryan D. Platz, 48, gained his angel wings on Saturday, February 15, 2025.

Ryan was born to Daniel and June (Vorwald) Platz on August 7, 1976. The youngest of three children, he grew up in Dyersville, IA. He graduated from Beckman High School and attended Kirkwood Community College in Cedar Rapids, IA, where he gained skills to become an accomplished CNC machinist. Ryan began his career at Geater Manufacturing in Independence, IA, followed by GDM in Dyersville, and Townsend Engineering in Des Moines, IA. In 2014, Ryan began working for Advanced Machine Technologies where he served as President of the company since 2021.

Prior to moving to Des Moines, Ryan met the love of his life, Kristin Sporrer on St. Patrick’s Day in Dyersville. Their shared love of sports created an instant bond, and they married on September 10, 2005. Ryan and Kristin welcomed their daughters Reagan and Reese.

Ryan’s love of the outdoors began in childhood. He enjoyed years of hunting and fishing with his dad and buddies. Canadian fishing trips were a favorite and Ryan always made the trek back to eastern Iowa for deer camp. Ryan made many memories due to his lifetime connection to Lake Delhi. Whether boating, hanging out on the deck, or 4-wheeling on the ice, the cabin was one of his happy places. Throughout high school, Ryan enjoyed competing on the football and golf teams. An avid sports fan, Ryan loved the Iowa Hawkeyes, Chicago Cubs and Bears. In more recent years, Kristin and the girls also persuaded him to cheer for the Kansas City Chiefs.

Ryan was a man of commitment – a dedicated employee and faithful friend. But it was his family commitment that really stood out. His life truly revolved around his family. He loved attending his girls’ activities, teaching them to shoot, fish and cook, cabin time, family beach trips, concerts and sporting events. One of Ryan’s lesser known, but most appreciated gifts was his ease in the kitchen. He was an extraordinary chef who turned out delicious meals that everyone loved. Those who knew Ryan best will remember his sense of humor and his occasional mischievous streaks where some of the best memories were made.

He will be deeply missed by his wife Kristin, daughters Reagan and Reese, parents Dan and June Platz, sisters Jenny and Tracy Platz, mother-in-law Rosie Sporrer, in-laws Scott (Allison Ashinger) Sporrer, Stacy Sporrer, Kevin (Alycia) Sporrer and several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins. He was preceded in death by his father-in-law LaVerne Sporrer, grandparents Gilbert and Valeria Platz, Raymond (Dick) and Jan Vorwald, aunt Darlene Platz, and his aunt/Godmother Sharon Gudenkauf.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Memorials may be directed to Kristin, Reagan and Reese.

“I think about all the good times we had; makes me happy and it makes me sad.”

Kenny Chesney

Print