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RYLAN CARMELO ROMEO-COQUETE
Born: Feb 21, 2011
Date of Passing: Jan 23, 2013
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryRYLAN CARMELO ROMEO-COQUETE Our Hero, Rylan received his miracle, freedom from cancer, after many victories, where he never gave up and taught us the true meaning of strength and courage. Rylan passed away peacefully at home, in his Mom and Dad's loving arms on January 23, 2013, at the age of 23 months. Rylan Carmelo Romeo-Coquete graced our lives with his birth February 21, 2011 to his parents Jennifer Wityshyn and Jonathan Romeo-Coquete. From the very beginning he touched the lives of so many with his big blue eyes, and contagious smile. Rylan loved his best friend Bomber, movies, books, anything to do with Cars and his Tim's smoothies. Rylan was loved by so many, like he was their own. His extended family of friends and supporters loving him dearly every step of his journey. Rylan was a true Mama's boy and loved the ladies. Rylan was diagnosed with AT/RT, Atypical Teratoid Rhabdoid Tumours, in March 2012, just after his first birthday. Although this was devastating news, Rylan surpassed everyone's expectations always smiling. He did many rounds of chemo, three stem cell transplants and Proton Radiation, all of which he handled like just another day. He was quite the ladies man anywhere he went. And always knew how to make everyone smile. Rylan you NEVER GAVE UP and we will NEVER GIVE UP . We will raise awareness about Childhood Cancer to assist in research and find cures. Rylan leaves to mourn his passing and cherish many fond memories; his parents Jennifer Wityshyn and Jonathan Romeo-Coquete, his Nona, Josephine Romeo, his grandparents Sherry and Doug Wityshyn and Roberta Romeo and Frank Ogden; his Aunts and Uncles, Bree, Bradyn and Brooklyn Wityshyn and Crystal (Romeo-Coquete) and Julio Alfaro with their children Aiden and Eliana. All his Great Aunts, Uncles and cousins along with many special friends and extended family. On Monday, January 28, 2013, Mass of Christian burial will be held at 3:00 p.m., with Rylan's Celebration of life to follow, at Holy Rosary Roman Catholic Church, 510 River Avenue, Winnipeg. Rev. Fr. Samuel Argenziano as Celebrant. Flowers are gratefully declined. Instead please consider making a donation in honour of Rylan to CK5 Childlife c/o the Children's Hospital Foundation, CE501 840 Sherbrook Street, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3A 1S1 or to the Dream Factory, 303 - 1 Wesley Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3C 4C6 or to The Ribbons for Rylan fund, as Jennifer and Jonathan hope to create a legacy in Rylan's honor, that will assist other children and families faced with this journey. Donations Envelopes will be available at the service. Cropo Funeral Chapel in care of arrangements, 204-586-8044.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 26, 2013
Condolences & Memories (19 entries)
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I just want to you to know that although I never knew Rylan or had the opportunity to meet him or his family, he has had a life changing impact on me. I had occasion to find out about Rylan's story through a friend of mine who was involved in the Ribbons for Rylan Bracelet project. When I read the story I was moved to participate. When I heard of the tragedy, I was very sad, because it reminded me of all the bad things that happen to good people. I decided the day that I heard of Rylan's passing that I would adopt as my Credo the theme of his project, "Never Give Up." We all must remember with all of the challenges life presents us with, that we must "Never Give Up." Thanks, Rylan for teaching an old guy what he must never forget. - Posted by: Dave Grant () on: Jul 04, 2013
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Hi we have never met but about 3 months ago I ran across a picture of your sweet little boy on a friends facebook page (I then clicked ribbons for Rylan and found myself following his journey, your journey, when I read of his passing my heart broke, but I knew he is now pain free and smiling down on everyone he loved, even though I never met Rylan or his family I felt connected through all the posts and pictures and it has taught me to cherish every moment with my kids. May Rylan R.I.P and may his family find peace, so sorry for your loss. - Posted by: Tammy Sitarek () on: Jan 31, 2013
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We here at TransX were truly sorry to hear of the loss of Rylan. Please allow me, on behalf of all of us to extend my deepest sympathies to you, Jennifer and your family as you struggle through this period of shock and grief. We mourn the loss along with you. - Posted by: Derek Rolstone (Co - Worker ) on: Jan 30, 2013
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Was so sad to hear of your brave little boy's passing. I cried that day when I heard. We were praying and hoping for a miracle like you his parents were. God had other plans for Rylan. To be free from pain and sorrow. Jesus has wiped away his tears and he is whole and is playing in Jesus's garden with the other little angels. May our Lord comfort you in the next few months as you try to cope with your loss. He is with you every step of the way and will never leave or forsake you. - Posted by: DARLENE WIEBE (facebook friend) on: Jan 29, 2013
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My thoughts are with the family as they go through this tough time. Thank you for sharing your journey with everyone, Rylan has touched so many people with his bravery, strength and big blue eyes!!! RIP Rylan, you are missed by so many!!! Your family, friends and followers will continue your legacy. - Posted by: Laura () on: Jan 29, 2013
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Sorry for your loss! My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family! Will never forget that brave handsome little angel! - Posted by: Patti (One of Rylan's many followers who fell in love with the little man) on: Jan 29, 2013
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God bless his little soul. He is now in a safe place and is finally at rest. He and the family are a true inspiration to us all! RIP baby Rylan! - Posted by: Deanna (Friend of Jennifer's ) on: Jan 28, 2013
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Rylan touched the lives of so many he met and so many he hadn't. He will continue his journey knowing the love of his wonderful family, friends and those who he never got the chance to meet. May God be with you all. Cherish all of the beautiful memories this beautiful child gave you. Know that you have continued thought, prayers and support. Stay strong and know Rylan is always with you. RIP little Rylan. Watch over your wonderful parents. - Posted by: Melanie Harris () on: Jan 28, 2013
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My deepest condolences. Rylan is at peace and free of suffering. Although I did not know him or never met him, I was honoured to be able to do something for his Elmo room. May his courage and strength help you through this difficult time. - Posted by: Huguette Trudel (Dream Room Project (sewed Elmos...)) on: Jan 28, 2013
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I am praying for the repose of your son. What an angel that has blessed so many people. Thank you Rylan. - Posted by: Jo-Anne Yuskin (Parishioner at Holy Rosary) on: Jan 28, 2013
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Sorry to hear the loss of your son that's very dear to you. Rylan is now safe in God's care. May each day ease the burden of your sorrow and may you be comforted by the caring thoughts of those around you. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. - Posted by: josie maingat (co-worker of jonathan) on: Jan 28, 2013
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I send you my heartfelt compassion. The pain is incredibly gut-wrenching; we never should have to feel. I may be going where Rylan is- safe and in an un-pained home. I will hold him close & rock him gently for you .... Just like I used to cradle my grandson. I send Strength & comfort to you all. God Bless (Grannie-Dani) - Posted by: Danielle (Just someone who cares) on: Jan 28, 2013
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Roberta I was so sorry to hear about Rylan he was such a special little boy and such a little fighter, All of you all are in my prayers if there is anything I can do please give me a call. - Posted by: Linda (Friend ) on: Jan 27, 2013
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I am so sorry for the son of your son. I am heartbroken to hear of his passing. I have been following Rylan's journey since I heard your story on CJOB radio then continued to follow on the website. I do not know your family, but as the mother of a 4 year old son, I cannot imagine your pain. Rylan was so brave and an absolutely beautiful boy. Your strength as parents is incredible. God bless Rylan. God bless your family. - Posted by: Nicole S. () on: Jan 26, 2013
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My deepest sympathies to all of Rylan's family members whom are left here to cherish his memory. Words cannot ease the pain of losing your child but I hope that you can find some sort of comfort in knowing that Rylan is now at peace with The Lord. I truly believe that he is running and playing with the angels in the biggest playground in the sky. Remember that God only takes the best...and Rylan's time came way to early. He was given to Jen and Jon for a short time to let them know the greatest love of all. Hold tight to your fond memories...for these you will have to hold onto and cherish for the rest of your lives. May the prayers of many find you some sort of peace. Rest in peace little Rylan, for you fought so couragousley. - Posted by: Candace van Reede (Friend of Doug, Rylan's grandpa) on: Jan 26, 2013
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A joyous little spirit that swept through this world all too quickly. My deepest condolences to his dear family. - Posted by: Julie (Friend of the Family) on: Jan 26, 2013
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all our prayers and thoughts of sympathy we convey to the family,through these very difficult times and wish them a speedy recovery through the grieving times. Heaven also needs there angels to assist us when we go home,where our little Rylon will greet our arrival and where we will all live in peace . May god bless you all with peace, and support us all through these troubled times. - Posted by: jose rocha / Tradicoes (friend of family) on: Jan 26, 2013
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I was so moved by your loss of your son that I had to respond and offer my condolences to you and your family. We understand what you are going through, as we lost our grandson 13 months ago, at 2.5 yrs. old . He was born with a rare muscle disorder (one of 4-500 kids in the world), and parents were not carriers of this genetic disorder. Our grandson also went through all kinds of trials and tribulations,11 ambulance trips to hospital, etc, but kept all of us strong and having no doubts in our beliefs. He did everything they said he wouldn't do and I am sure you take great pride in the fact that your little one also achieved many goals. The loss of a child is the worst grief that anyone can go through, but day by day we are starting to realize that his life had a great purpose for all of us, and that he lives on through all of us, as does your Rylan. Take comfort that Rylan is in God's hands, and free to live a healthy life, maybe even playing with our little one. Our heart goes out to all of you. When the time is right for you, if you ever find a book called "Growing Up in Heaven" by James Van Praagh, it's well worth the read - a very comforting book. Even though we don't know each other, I feel we share a common bond. Take care of each other, and your family. - Posted by: Linda (no relationship ) on: Jan 26, 2013
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My thoughts and prayers With you. Rylan was a very special little boy. I'll never forgot those blue eyes. - Posted by: Kristina Hacault (Friend of the family ) on: Jan 26, 2013