William M. ‘Bill’ Ryan

Born December 8, 1930, in Negaunee, a son of Ivan and Mamie (Kivela) Ryan, Bill was raised at the Huron Mountain Club where his mother was the head cook and his father a horse trainer for one of the members. He graduated from Graveraet High School, Class of 1948, and enrolled at the University of Michigan. He later transferred to Northern Michigan College (now NMU) pursuing a degree in education. Bill’s early teaching assignments began with his teaching math in Sault Ste Marie for four years before returning to Marquette and continuing his teaching career. During those years, Bill earned his Masters Degree in Education and later a Masters Degree in Administration. Bill retired from Marquette Senior High School in 1989 as head of the Math Department, capping a 36 year career of service to the Michigan Public Schools, numerous teachers, students, parents, and the community. During the summers in the late 50’s, 60’s and 70’s, Bill also served as manager of Mt. Marquette. Bill loved to spend time with his family, especially at camp, and made himself available should any of his teacher friends need help with any of their projects. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and loved to build. He put his building talents to work, building his camp, garage, and many outbuildings. Bill was an active, lifelong member of St. Mark’s Lutheran Church.

Survivors include his four children, Robert (Suzanne Vandervennet) Ryan of Marquette, Colleen Koenig of Tempe, AZ, Susan (Tim) Lewis of Hopkins, MN, and David (Roxanne) Ryan of North St. Paul, MN.; eight grandchildren, Adam (Kristy) Ryan of Iron Mountain, Andrew (Michelle) Ryan of Appleton, WI, Amanda (Mitch) Redepenning of Minnetonka, MN, Stacy Koenig of Two Rivers, WI, Jennifer Price of Mesa, AZ, Nick Lewis of Mankato, MN, Billy Ryan of Burnsville, MN, and Ashley (Curtis) Klint of Maplewood, MN; 14 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, K. Patricia in 2003, and his brother, Ivan Ryan.

Friends may call at Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services on Friday, August 9, beginning at 1:30 pm until the time of service at 3:30 pm. Rev. William Payne will officiate. A reception will follow in the reception room located at the funeral home. Interment will be made in the Park Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Bay Cliff Health Camp, P.O. Box 310, Big Bay, MI 49808.

Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family, where condolences may be expressed online at fassbenderswansonhansen.com