In Loving Memory

A Celebration of a Life Well Lived

William Ryan, born in Oak Park, IL, was blessed with a wonderful life. He died at the age of 92, in the Tucson VA Hospital, with Jenny by his side.

Throughout life, he valued education, quality work, integrity and personal responsibility. After serving as an officer in the US Airforce and Reserves, he graduated with a Doctorate in Communications from the University of Illinois, and pursued a career as a professor and author, teaching Communications (journalism, public relations, advertising and marketing) at the University of Rhode Island, University of Georgia, University of Michigan, Cal State Long Beach and Syracuse University where he served students at the undergraduate, masters and doctorate levels. As his teaching career came to a close, Bill surprised everyone and earned a Bachelor of Nursing degree to compliment his volunteer work as an EMT with the Fayetteville, NY Fire Department, where he had the honor of delivering a baby.

A humble, kind and gentle man who was casual with both introductions and impish jokes, Bill was an avid jogger and cyclist, known for taking the kids sledding on snowy Christmas mornings in upstate NY. After retiring to Green Valley, he enjoyed RV'ing across National Parks and hiking the Sonoran Desert. He was a member of a 5 am morning coffee clutch in Green Valley, a car enthusiast, a news junkie and always a snappy dresser.

Bill was a devoted husband to his wife of 56 years, and is survived by the love of his life, Jenny, his son Kevin (Christy), daughters Kerry (Ben) and Alyson (Chris), and grandson Maxwell. We remember him not only for what he achieved, but for the way he made us feel: seen as individuals, valued in our independence, and loved for who we are.

In loving memory, we hold him in our hearts, now and always.

The family asks that no flowers be sent, and that you remember Bill by graciously giving to the charity of your choice, or to the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona located in Green Valley, 250 Continental Rd, Green Valley, AZ 85614. (520) 625-5252 https://www.communityfoodbank.org/locations/green-valley-resource-center/