Tribute Wall
Tuesday
31
January
Wake
3:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Tuesday, January 31, 2023
Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home
43 Winn Street
Burlington, Massachusetts, United States
781-272-0050
Celebration of Life
There will be a celebration of Rye’s life in Vermont around the time of his birth in April. If you would like to be informed of details once formalized please send your email address to nickcharyk@gmail.com.
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Joseph fitzpatrick posted a condolence
Sunday, January 7, 2024
Simple….God required Rye at his side. Not to cook but to love.
I think He is truly sad, that he should call Rye home so early (and God forgive me, why?)
but it is what it is. Imagine our world having NEVER Rye rattling the pots?
All of my love to his family and friends.
And fer Crissake, make Opioid Treatment with medications O….fucking……K.
I am so so sorry.
God Bless You
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Cyrus Cross uploaded photo(s)
Saturday, March 25, 2023
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Cyrus Cross lit a candle
Saturday, March 25, 2023
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It's CyGuy❤️RyeGuy...... My heart broke into a million pieces when I heard you had passed.....
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John Graff posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 31, 2023
I am so sorry to hear that my great friend and childhood buddy Rye Crofter past away. I knew Rye since my elementary school through high school. I have many great memories about him with my friend Nick Charyk doing civil war act plays and many more hobbies with all of us together. I am so sorry for his mother Sue and father Ruddy that I both know so much about losing a son is unbareale to understand and cope with all of this. I am so sick about this all what happen to Rye but I guess he wasn't in a great mind set and now he is in a better place now. Take care my great best buddy Rye I hope you rest well and be in heaven. We will miss you so much and love you too.
John Graff
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Ted Lawrence posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 31, 2023
Rye was a Van Lodostov Family Circus trouper for many years. I think he was about 10 years old his first year, which was the first year I did a program in Norwich. In addition to the 20 or so kids enrolled in the program, there was also one adult – an elementary educator from somewhere nearby. While “circus” was the name of the program, I really modeled what we were out to accomplish with the troupers on experiences I had with Outward Bound and Project Adventure programs: getting kids to grow by setting and attaining goals while overcoming their own doubts about what they could do. Rye was great. He was one of the “bigger” kids in the group despite his young age, so when we did pyramids with a dozen or more kids he was generally on the bottom holding others up. He never complained. For our final show that session we had a BIG pyramid that actually had three layers of kids standing on shoulders (the top kid was actually in a safety harness). Rye was one of the three or four kids on the bottom, and during Dress Rehearsal the pyramid crashed down. I think Rye got clobbered – he was in tears. The process demanded that we all talk about what happened, what went wrong, and what it would take to fix if – if we even wanted to try it again. It was somber and - to the credit of all the kids present – very respectful. The issue was identified, the fix figured out. But Rye was still teary-eyed. I knew he could do it, but clearly he didn’t. I made the speech about “EVERYBODY in the pyramid has to want to do it, or we don’t do it.” Nobody spoke. I don’t remember if I said something else – encouraging – or not, but I then said, “Well, what do you think?” The entire group respectfully stayed quiet in a moment when less sensitive people (less of a team) would have been clamoring “Let’s do it!” They looked at Rye who was still pretty unsure of himself, and waited for his response. And Rye looked up at the group, wiped an eye, and said, “Let’s do it again.” The adult camper turned and strode out of the room. I was pretty worried that I had overstepped the bounds of proper encouragement. But before going to find the teacher and get my feedback from her, the kids put up the pyramid and I had to run the spotting belt and…. They did it! When they came down I went and found the grown-up who was sequestered in the shadows. “Did I overdo it?” I asked. “That was so beautiful,” she replied… and now she was crying.
Thank you, Rye, for being a kid who tried harder than he thought he could and inspired others to attain great achievements. You were always fun to work with and a hard worker, and you were one of the most solid troupers I ever had the privilege of working with. RIP.
Ted Lawrence
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Ellen Wicklum posted a condolence
Monday, January 30, 2023
I'm so sad about Rye's passing and am keeping him and all who loved him in my thoughts. He had such a beautiful smile--I see it in his pictures here, but to be present when it lit up a room was a true joy! Thank you for sharing your beautiful memories of him here and know that I'm grateful to have known him, however briefly.
Ellen Wicklum
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Larry Lowndes posted a condolence
Monday, January 30, 2023
Dear Rudy, Sue and Lisa.
I got to know Rye briefly a few years back when he was here in the Upper Valley preparing Sous Vide and borrowed a circulator. He and I also attended some of the same meditation meetings.
I am unable to form a mental image of Rye without seeing at smile on his face. He seemed like such a good kid who was lucky enough to really enjoy both his profession and his life away from the kitchen. That's a true gift.
I wish peace for you all in this difficult time.
Larry Lowndes
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Randy posted a condolence
Sunday, January 29, 2023
I am so grateful that Rye was a part of my life. While I only met him a few times his mentorship and friendship with our son meant so much more than he ever knew. I will miss him deeply.
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Molly O’Hara posted a condolence
Sunday, January 29, 2023
I feel so lucky that I got to know Rye during my late teens. He was a wonderful friend during a very turbulent time in my life and despite how hard he was struggling, he always kept us laughing, thinking, talking. My heart hurts, for him, and for all of you.
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Marybeth Lang posted a condolence
Saturday, January 28, 2023
I did not know Rye yet I feel like I know him from this wonderful description of him. His smile shows his beautiful soul that is alive and well. So sorry for the physical loss of Rye Rudy and to all of Rye's family.
Marybeth Lang
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Bob Bauer posted a condolence
Saturday, January 28, 2023
Dear Rudy and Sue, our love is there for you, to catch you, to support you when you fall through the cracks of your broken hearts
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Doreen Schweizer posted a condolence
Saturday, January 28, 2023
Dear Sue and Rudy, How well I remember your youth and joy - such an important part of the thriving life and gardens and deepening spirit at 'The Farm', which helped me greatly in my own healing. And, I remember the arrival of Rye into the community -- a beautiful baby boy. So long ago -- and yesterday too. The hopes and intentions, the open-heartedness, and the fears too. I remember and know the fullness of your commitment to Rye and your deep abiding care for Rye - always. That doesn't ever end. Who really knows how, but the truth is that this loving connection will never end. It will continue to contribute to the life of all of us; and it sustains Rye, even as it sustains you both and all of us during these difficult days. May you find comfort and sustenance now and always in this lifetime of love.
Thich Nath Hanh, who died last January wrote:
“I will continue to be. But you have to be very careful to see me.
I will be a flower or a leaf. I will be in those forms and send you a greeting.
If you are aware enough, you will recognize me, and you will be smiling at me.
I will be very happy about it.” (TNH)
Thank you for the beautiful 'Memorial Video''. I am holding you in my heart and wishing you well always,
Love,
Doreen Schweizer
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JoAnn Kruzshak posted a condolence
Friday, January 27, 2023
So sorry to hear about Rye. I remember him as a wonderful little boy.
Jo Ann Kruzshak
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Joanne & Butch Graziosi posted a condolence
Thursday, January 26, 2023
Sue, Anne & Dick and all the other relatives of ours, we are so sorry to hear of Rye's passing. My memories are of all the times we all got together during the summer at the pool. It looks like Rye made quite a great Chef of himself. Our thoughts & prayers are with you all at this horrible time. Stay strong. Love, Joanne & Butch Graziosi
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Becca uploaded photo(s)
Thursday, January 26, 2023
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In the kitchen, even if he had a big prep list, Rye would check in and make sure everyone was doing okay. He really put others first and was always looking to cheer people up. While most were too wrapped up in work, he led with kindness and care. He loved cracking jokes and being silly in and out of the kitchen. We love you and we are gonna miss you Rye. Photo: breaking down after service, L’Espalier- June 2012 but seems like just yesterday
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Lisa Johnson posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 25, 2023
Little Rye Berry was such a fun and curious kid, so full of life. The last time I saw Rye was over the counter at Dan & Whit's as I got him a sandwich, and I was so amazed to see what a talented, humble, and wise man he had grown into. Rye, you gave us all so much joy, and your eyes always shined so bright. I'm sorry we as a nation have put the wrong priorities first, yet still you shone. You lit your mom and dad up from the earliest days, and that radiated out to all the rest of us. Blessings on your journey, darling.
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Meredith McCusker née Kippen uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, January 25, 2023
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Dad posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 25, 2023
Sue, 62 years ago as I held a little ball of black fur,I vowed then as I did four more times that I would protect you or at least ease all your HURTS. It pains me now that the worst hurt imaginable has occurred to you and I cannot do this, however I can still love you unconditionally and be here for you. Love your Dad
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dad posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 25, 2023
Life sent clouds and rain? Time to go "muddling".
Jewelweed's ripening? Those are "poppyseeds".
Rye called it what it is.
Purgatory, The Bardo...call it what you will but...
May these 10,000 blessings sent with you in this time give you wings to fly, a song in your heart, and a gentle breeze at your back.
We love you Rye.
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Brit McMahan uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, January 25, 2023
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Brianna prosser posted a symbolic gesture
Tuesday, January 24, 2023
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Since starting externship at Menton I knew this atmosphere was where I wanted to be and part of that was because of chef rye. He lit up the room whenever he walked in and if anyone was having a bad day he knew how to make them smile. The kitchen will always feel empty without you and I’m so happy I got the chance to work with you. Truly life changing.
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Bette Nunez posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 24, 2023
A gift to all of us gone too soon! I first met Rye as a Kindergartener at the Thetford Elementary School. He was a kind and gentle soul. He warmed the room with creativity and friendship. I am saddened by his passing but really grateful I had the opportunity to be taught by him: grace, humor and love❤️
❤️Bette Nunez
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Helen Ogle uploaded photo(s)
Tuesday, January 24, 2023
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Rye thanks for the great memories. Thanks for loving my girl. We will miss you desperately! Love ya Helen
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Alex Leaden lit a candle
Tuesday, January 24, 2023
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My deepest condolences to Rye’s family and loved ones. This is a loss that will leave everyone who has had the honor of knowing him changed forever. Rye was one of the most kind, generous and warmhearted individuals I’ve ever met, these words feel trite put up against how special he truly was.
Rye was my roommate during the pandemic, which of course was a (trauma) bonding experience. I’m grateful for the memories of going on long hikes spring 2020 with Rye and my partner Ryan. Rye taught us about foraging and we picked wintergreen along the trail. Easter that year Rye prepared a huge nouvelle cuisine feast for our house, it was delicious and incredible. He was always there to offer a ride home from work, or a cigarette when I needed a little vent. I remember while working at Drink downstairs from Menton where he of course, was the chef. I lamented to him about the lack of vegetarian options our staff was provided for family meal and without a moment of hesitation Rye stormed into the kitchen, silenced the chaos and demanded that myself and all the other vegetarians were taken care of. I’ll hold all these memories dear and keep them with me forever, I feel very lucky to have known Rye <3
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Nick uploaded photo(s)
Tuesday, January 24, 2023
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Nick posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 24, 2023
I lost my brother Rye last week suddenly, two days before my birthday. We shared everything but a biological bond, and I am reeling at the thought of beginning another trip around the sun without his presence. Please send some love to Rye as he begins his next adventure.
The loyalty, unconditional love, and responsibility I felt for Rye was a feeling I know was mutual. We grew up together, searched for imagined arrow heads in the woods, saw the great Joe Strummer at the Worcester Palladium, kicked hornet nests, cooked hot dogs and eggs for breakfast, drove to Washington DC for the Obama inauguration, and made shitty VHS horror movies. We loved each other.
Last time I saw Rye was in Boston two months ago. He served me the best meal of my life. He was happy, and we told each other how much we meant to each other. I had gotten my hair cut earlier that day. I can’t comprehend that my hair will continue to grow but he won’t.
As my obligation to protect and love my brother grows to a close, I can’t begin to imagine a world without him. In the coming weeks we will come together and celebrate his life. I hope to see many of you there.
Until Valhalla my brother… I will see you again one day.
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Daniel Namiatov uploaded photo(s)
Tuesday, January 24, 2023
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The family of Rye Crofter uploaded a photo
Monday, January 23, 2023
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Edward V. Sullivan
Funeral Home
43 Winn Street
Burlington, MA 01803
Ph: (781) 272-0050
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