Marianne Saalfrank Ryan

Marianne Saalfrank Ryan, 85, Fishers, IN, passed away December 13, 2024. She was born in Schwaebisch Gmuend, Germany to Hans Saalfrank and Anne Kimmel Saalfrank. After completing primary and secondary education in Germany, Marianne pursued a higher level of education, achieving an associate's degree in business. At age 21, Marianne met Raymond Rodriguez, a US Army officer, who was stationed in Schwaebisch Gmuend. They were married shortly after they met, and Marianne moved to the United States, where she proudly became a US citizen. Their daughter, Monica, was born the year after. The Rodriguez family was stationed at many Army bases, with their final destination being Fort Benjamin Harrison in Indianapolis, Indiana. Marianne was employed at Kittles as a secretary and then established herself with Eli Lilly as a sales representative for Elizabeth Arden cosmetics for several years. Marianne greatly enjoyed socializing with neighbors and friends throughout her military and post-retirement life by planning and hosting social gatherings. One of her favorite hobbies was playing card games with friends. Marianne also enjoyed traveling the world with her family and independently. Her favorite place to visit was Europe. In addition to her hobbies and interests, she contributed her time and financial resources towards philanthropic organizations. She was involved with a multitude of organizations, including: Kiwanis International, the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA), the Fishers Newcomers Club, and the Vintner Drive neighborhood group. Marianne enjoyed planning and participating in the yearly neighborhood Christmas party.  

Throughout Marianne’s life, maintaining good health and wellbeing was priority. She enjoyed preparing delicious, healthy meals, and exercising daily. Unfortunately, Marianne was diagnosed with lung cancer in October of 2023. Because of her dedication to health and fitness, Marianne was able to overcome what appeared to be insurmountable obstacles throughout the year after her diagnosis. Despite the challenges, she was consistently positive, always smiling, and never giving up. Her courage, tenacity, perseverance, and grace were an inspiration to her family, friends, and all who met her along the way of her journey. She will always be remembered by her family and friends as someone who was strong-willed and steadfast in her faith, beliefs, and values. 

Marianne was preceded in death by her parents, husbands, Raymond Rodriguez and Joseph D. Ryan, and her sister, Lore Kennedy. 

Survivors include her daughter, Monica Anne Pottschmidt, grandchildren: Reed Pottschmidt, Mataya Pottschmidt, Mariah Pottschmidt, and Malayna Pottschmidt, and great grandson, Merrick Edwards. 

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Lung Association, 12800 Meridian St Ste 125, Carmel, IN 46032. 

Visitation will be held on Friday, January 10, 2025, at 9:30 AM at Holy Spirit at Geist Catholic Church, 10350 Glaser Way, Fishers, IN. A Mass of Christian Burial will begin there at 11:00 AM. The family welcomes attendees to join them for a luncheon at the church following Mass. 

Online condolences may be shared at www.flannerbuchanan.com.