This fundraiser was initially started to support Bean and the McKnight family through the unimaginable loss of Bean’s beloved husband, Ryan McKnight, in October 2023. The Lake and McKnight families have been overwhelmed by the generosity of this community. You have been instrumental in supporting Bean and her boys through the most difficult chapter of their lives.

Bean is now facing another unimaginable challenge. She has recently been diagnosed with Stage IV metastatic breast cancer and has begun treatment. As she navigates this journey while raising two young boys, we have the opportunity to surround her with the same love and generosity she has shown so many others throughout her life.

Funds will be used to cover any unforeseen medical costs, childcare and household expenses, and generally for providing Bean and her boys with options in the days ahead. All help, financial and otherwise, is so appreciated. You can find more ways to support here: https://sites.google.com/view/the-bean-team/home

Thank you for being part of the village carrying Bean and her family through this chapter. Every prayer, every meal, every donation, and every encouraging word is a tangible reminder that hope is stronger when it is shared.

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It is with profound sadness we share that Ryan McKnight — beloved father, husband, son, brother, and friend — tragically passed away on October 29, 2023.

To anyone reading this, you likely know first hand what a gift and a treasure Ryan was to his many friends and family. He was fun, curious, hard working, funny, and above all, he was kind. He was the life and soul of whatever room he happened to be in. He had a special way of making everyone feel important and listened to.

Ryan found his perfect match and his greatest love when he met Colleen “Bean” Lake at Penn State. Ryan’s devotion to Bean was unparalleled and their relationship was truly a gift to their wide circle of friends and their extraordinary tight-knit families. “Bean-and-McKnight” has been a seemingly single word since the day they found each other. Ryan and Colleen welcomed their beautiful son, Seamus, in June 2022. Ryan had an undeniable appreciation and optimism for the life they all shared in his beloved hometown of Springfield, PA. Ryan was the most incredible, devoted, and loving father to Seamus. He was excitedly preparing to do it all over again very soon: Colleen and Ryan’s second son is expected in November.

Ryan and Bean are beloved by all who know them. We’ve set up this page simply because we know so many of you want to help. Please consider supporting this wonderful family as they navigate this devastating time.