Alvin Ralph Ryan

Alvin Ralph Ryan, 85 PALA -- Alvin Ralph Ryan passed away Monday, October 11, 2010. Born August 2, 1925 in Phoenix, Ariz., he was the son of Judd and Louise Ryan. Alvin received his Doctorate in Medical Laboratory Science from USC. He worked as an medical technologist, worked for a time at Fallbrook Hospital as well as medical laboratories throughout California, American Samoa, India, and the tropics. He retired in 1990. Alvin was in the U.S. Army during WWII, was a combat infantryman in the invasion of Normandy, and helped liberate several concentration camps during the war. He served with General Patton. As a horticulturist, he loved gardening and even built his own park in his yard. He was a world traveler. He also was a novelist, writing five novels. He was a storyteller to anyone who would listen. Alvin graduated from Arthur Murray School of Dance, and even quilted. Alvin was a friend to all. He loved to joke. He had a passion for culture and genealogy wherever he traveled. He was a gourmet chef. Alvin is survived by his wife, Carmelita Ryan; daughter, Rene (Jerry) Tieszen of Riverside; son, Jeffrey (Juanita) Ryan of Harper, Texas; brother, David (Carollen) of Boise, Idaho; and nephew, Jerry(Veronica) Barber of Port Orchard, Wash. Alvin was preceded in death by his first wife Joy Galbraith, brothers Melvin, Norman, and sister Imogene Barber, as well as his parents Judd and Louise Ryan. A visitation will be held at Berry-Bell and Hall Mortuary on Thursday, October 14, from 4-8 pm, with Rosary at 7 p.m. A graveside service will be on Friday, October 15 at 10 a.m., at the Pala Indian Cemetery in Pala, Calif. Berry-Bell and Hall Mortuary is handling arrangements. Sign the Guest Book online obits.nctimes.com