Ryan's grandparents are Norma and the late Thomas Bowen, Washington, the late Benjamin Schroeder and the late Alfred and Verna Grus, Washington.
Kate is a 1997 graduate of Washington High School and worked nine years as an assembler for Chrysler LLC South Plant in Fenton, which is currently closed. She is a member of UAW Local 110. Kate also is a full-time student at Skin Institute, St. Louis, and plans to graduate in fall as a licensed aesthetician.
Ryan is a 1996 graduate of Francis Howell High School and a graduate of Lewis and Clark Automotive Technology School. He is a senior automobile paint and body specialist with Colorall, St. Louis.
The couple plan a spring 2009 Catholic wedding.

