Port mourns loss of director

By Terry Murry on Thursday, January 20th, 2022 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories

BOARDMAN – The following is a news release from the Port of Morrow

It is with deep sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of our leader and friend, Ryan Neal. Ryan passed away the morning of January 18, 2022, from complications due to COVID.

“We lost a key member of our port family. We are all adjusting to the news. His loss leaves a big hole. It won’t be easy,” shared Marv Padberg, port commission vice-president.

“I know this will be a huge loss. I admire Ryan’s dedication to the region and port industries. My heart goes out to the Neal family,” says Rick Stokoe, port commission president.

After working in sales and management across the Pacific Northwest, Ryan was happy to have the opportunity to return to his hometown of Boardman in 2015 when he was hired for a management position at the Port of Morrow Warehousing. Ryan began his role as Port of Morrow Executive Director in 2018.

He was passionate about giving back to the community he grew up in and served on many boards in Boardman and northeast Oregon. Ryan will be deeply missed.