Add a Memory
Send Flowers
Make a Donation
Matthew Ryan Obituary
In the 22 months since his birth, Michael Quinn has learned to enjoy many things, but moments with his grandfather Matthew Ryan were highlights. The two played ball. They walked. They collaborated in the gloriously messy business of washing cars, outside the Ryan home in Seaford, N.Y. Mr. Ryan's wife, Margaret, said Matthew "would take the hose, squirt it all around, squirt the car, squirt Grandpa. Mostly he just got himself soaked."
Matthew Ryan, 54, loved all things Irish and all things family. He also loved to listen to the disc jockey Vin Scelsa play classic rock on the "Idiot's Delight" show on radio, and loved playing or watching hockey.
Matthew Ryan's 28-year career took him from Engine Company 280 in Brooklyn, to Engine Company 43 in the Bronx, where he was a lieutenant, back to to Engine Company 280 as captain and then to Manhattan in September 2000 as a battalion chief. In the heat of a fire, he would whisper calming instructions in younger firefighters' ears, Mrs. Ryan said. "They always felt more confident when Matty was on duty."
On Saturday evenings, many members of Engine 280 still listen to "Idiot's Delight."
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Morgan Sobanja
July 7, 2024
Hi there, my name is Morgan Sobanja. I live on Waiheke Island in New Zealand. I´m a firefighter and on 911 I will be climbing the sky tower in Auckland for Mathew on this Memorial Day. I´m so sorry for your loss!
Rest easy fellow firefighter brother. I´ll be thinking of you and your family.
September 2, 2022
Miss you so much. I hate September 1st because it just means another year you're gone.
Meaghan
January 24, 2022
Hi dad. It's my 39th birthday. I lost you at 18. I HATE that you've been gone more than half my life. I HATE it. But I still remember the last thing you said to me. I wish I had known it was going to be the last. I was such a freaking brat. You told me you loved me and... The last thing I said to you was, "yea ok. I'll see you next weekend'
Elizabeth misses you even though she never met you, but she remembers when you visited her as a child.
I found pictures today that reminded me of how much I look like you.
I know you know how much I miss you. But GOD I freaking miss you, so much, it hurts. Things have been so hard lately and I just wish I could talk to you. I wish I had appreciated you more when I had the chance.
I LOVE that today I noticed I have the same slant in my eye as you...same eye, same sparkle, same look. But it doesn't make me miss you any less.
I love you so much and I miss you dearly. Thank you for giving me life and for giving me (and elizabeth) something to look up to.
John Delaney
October 21, 2020
Never forget where we were when the news broke Sept 11th.
Saw your uniform in the museum
John Delaney
Birdhill
Co Tipperary
Ireland
How you can show support
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
The Kindred Family
November 28, 2019
Sincerely hoping that this time our message of heartfelt sympathy to your family will appear on this site. Always may God give his strength and comfort. Matthew is still sadly missed by others. He touched many lives and will always be loved and deeply appreciated.
Meaghan Ryan
November 8, 2019
Happy 50th anniversary.
Life had different plans for you and mom, but nonetheless 50 years ago today our family was formed. Love and miss you more than words can express.
July 28, 2019
18 years ago today....I have NO idea what went on that day. But 18 years ago today, you were HERE, and now you're not. I wish I had known to make it a day to remember. I wish I had known the end was so close.
I'm not ready for September. I'm not ready for you to be gone longer than I had you. I wasnt ready then. And I'm not ready now.
831
Meaghan Ryan
June 22, 2019
In a few hours it is your birthday. A day where everyone remembers you...yet I remember you everyday.
I miss you more than I ever thought possible.
I miss your corny jokes and how you had a sing song response for EVERYTHING. I do it now and drive Elizabeth crazy...she has no idea I learned from the BEST.
Happy birthday Daddy. You're missed beyond words.
Even music cant do it justice.
But, my song to US...
https://youtu.be/WY2-hUoq3iQ
Rob Gadamowitz
May 17, 2019
Im pretty sure Matt is Burried next to my mom in flushing. Gadamowitz.
Cant help but feel like neighbors....just wanted u to know that I am so happy that my parents are buried next to a hero.
[email protected]
Rob G
March 2, 2019
I miss you. I have all these keepsakes. I have all these memories. But I don't have you.
Do you remember my freshman orientation, just weeks before you were taken? I almost forgot until i heard that song before. I heard that song and vividly remembered. I took so many pictures, but none of you. I was too cool to appreciate my parents and what they gave up to bring me there.
This Sept you'll be gone longer than I had you. How is that possible?
How is it possible that I've survived this long? How is it possible that 18 years ago I rebelled and thought I knew better than my parents. But now 18 years later I'm finally realizing I knew nothing.
I lost you. Iost myself. I lost every sense of direction.
It took me so long to understand. It breaks my heart to know how much you missed.
MEAGHAN RYAN
February 14, 2019
Happy valentines day to my first valentine. I miss you more than words could ever explain. Love you daddy
December 2, 2018
Miss you
Meaghan Ryan
September 7, 2018
Somehow, almost 17 years have passed. That's 6,205 days that I've thought of you and have missed you. There's so much i want to say but no words to say it.
Miss you so much. I hate this time of the year.
Wake me up when September ends.
Until we meet again. 831
Meaghan Ryan
March 17, 2018
Happy St Patrick's day dad
Thank you
Until we meet again...
Love you
March 17, 2018
March 17, 2018
January 26, 2018
Missing you so much right now.
November 30, 2017
The Boss
September 11, 2017
831
Jean Ryan
September 11, 2017
Thinking of you and all the families as we remember the events of 9/11/01. Lest we never forget these brave men and women. God's blessings to each of you, God bless Matthew, God bless America.
June 17, 2017
Happy father's day
The Boss
May 27, 2017
I miss you so much but I really appreciated your visit today. I look for signs everywhere. I know you're with me and all your grandkids but I miss you.
Thinking of you this memorial day weekend...and everyday
April 23, 2017
Not a day has passed that I haven't thought of you. I miss you all the time. I know you're with us but i want to hug you. I want to see your shoulders shake while you quietly chuckle. I want to wake you up in the recliner because you fell asleep watching tv again. I want to roll my eyes at your singing but silently be taking in your passion.
Must be short....This serves as a reminder to me of all the loved ones that continue on. All the best always. :)
Gregg K
December 28, 2016
The Boss
September 11, 2016
Thinking about you, not just today but everyday.
Wish you were here when I need you the most. Wish Elizabeth could have met you. I wish I could hear you tell me everything is going to work out.
I miss you more everyday, it hurts.
This picture was the last picture I got to take with you and I'm so glad to have it. I wish I could go back to this day, if even just for a moment.
June 23, 2016. Birthday remembered at the memorial
Meaghan Ryan
July 26, 2016
David Hurlocker
July 24, 2016
Hello, my name is David Hurlocker I am a President of Central High volunteer fire Dpt. In Oklahoma. I'm also a member of Goodyear Lawton fire brigade in Oklahoma I will be participating in a stair climb in OKC on September 3, 2016 I have chose to climb in memory of chief Ryan, because my brother in Salisbury NC is the same rank.
The boss
April 26, 2016
Missing you so much today. I wish I could just call you and hear your voice. Love you so much and miss you more everyday
Meaghan Ryan
February 14, 2016
I'm not sure what happened but I posted something around the holidays and it's not there. But either way,
Happy valentine's day to my 1st valentine. Love you, miss you more everyday
meaghan ryan
June 23, 2015
elizabeth wanted to wish you a happy birthday. i wish she could have known you. i wish you could have met her. happy birthday, miss you more everyday. 831
May 31, 2015
Cant wait to see you
March 16, 2015
This time of year is aways mixed emotions. I love st patricks day and the pride you gave me. But i miss watching your march and wave at us with that smile. This year is especially hard. I need you so much right now. The only thing getting me through this difficult time is knowing youre watching over and trying to ease my hurt. I love you and miss you so much...
Until we meet again and i feel your warm embrace.
February 14, 2015
Happy valentines day to my 1st valentine. Missing you so much.
December 26, 2014
Merry christmas dad. hope you enjoyed it. say happy birthday to grandma for me. give nan a hug, and tell aunt jo we miss her.
Love you
November 19, 2014
Thinking of you.
September 11, 2014
Years have gone by. However Matty , you are never forgotten. You never will be.
June 23, 2014
Happy birthday, love you!
meaghan ryan-schmidt
June 15, 2014
Happy fathers day daddy, I love you more than I ever had the chance to say.
June 13, 2014
"I'm ok, I'm alright, though you have gone from my life. You said that it would, now everything should, be alright"
Miss you so much, I wait for the day these words don't make me cry.
May 15, 2014
Thinking of you
Meaghan Ryan-Schmidt
March 17, 2014
Happy Saint Patrick's Day.
Thank you for giving me such pride and for making this day so special. Love you and miss you, not just today but everyday.
Meaghan Ryan-Schmidt
February 14, 2014
Happy valentine's day to my first valentine. Love you Dad
Shatie ;)
December 18, 2013
You've been on my mind all day today. So many great things have happened within your family this past year. I wish you were here to share in them, but I know your above helping in the works with them. I miss you a lot. My father will never have such a great friend as you and a lot of the time I wish you were still here for him and the rest of us. Miss and love you always Matty.
November 29, 2013
I will not forget Matthew or the sacrifice he made. Blessings to you and your family!!
Meaghan Ryan-Schmidt
November 28, 2013
Happy Thanksgiving Dad! Can't wait for alice's resturant! Thank you for such an awesome tradition. Love you!
meaghan ryan-schmidt
September 11, 2013
I love you and miss u so much daddy. My heart breaks a little more everyday you're not here. It is an ache that will never go away. 831
Nikkole Groshans
August 29, 2013
I don't know the Ryan family, but was recently at the 911 Memorial. I was so moved by that space and knowing how much was sacrificed and lost there. I read so many names and I don't know why, but long after I returned home the name Matthew L. Ryan was constant in my memory and I felt compelled to look his name up. I know he wasn't just a name for tourist to read and I wanted to see his face and read words about his life told by those that loved him. I will remember his name and sacrifice. I just wanted to say that him and all the men like him will not be forgotten. I am so sorry for your family to have lost him.
the boss
August 6, 2013
As the 24th gets closer, it makes me realize how much I miss you. Although Matt will take your place and give me away, and steve is doing the father/daughter dance, they will never be you. I look to you all the time and just wish I could hear your voice. I miss you and I hate not having you here. When does it get easier? Everyone says it will but it seems to only be getting harder.
Wish you were here. Needing you now more than ever. Xoxoxoxo
meaghan ryan-schmidt
June 24, 2013
Happy birthday! Sorry I'm a day late but I love you and miss you tremendously.
meaghan ryan-schmidt
June 16, 2013
Happy fathers's day daddy. Love u
Meaghan Ryan-Schmidt
April 26, 2013
thinking of you
the boss
February 14, 2013
Happy Valentine's day to my very first valentine. Love you Daddy
Jean Ryan
January 14, 2013
I want you to know I just purchased dog tags with Matthew's name on it. I wanted to do something because I do not EVER want to forget that day or the brave people who charged forward without thought for their own lives and paid the price. I will wear Matthew's dog tags forever. I picked Matthew because he is a Ryan (so am I) and because he was a fireman and I respect them so much. I know you will never forget, I want you to know there are people out here that won't either. With love to all Matthew's family.
The Boss
November 8, 2012
I got the message, you didn't need to take down the tree.
Missing you so much today, then I found your old tapes. Wish I could hear you singing, I know you are.
831
Xoxoxo
Christy Ferolano-Avritch
September 11, 2012
We will never forget you! With love always The Ferolano Family. xo
September 10, 2012
Still remembering. God bless your family. Thank you for giving your life so that other's lived. Your are a true hero.
Michele Holden
September 9, 2012
I never had the pleasure of meeting you but your daughter is an amazing woman!! You are greatly missed!!
Debbie Z
September 9, 2012
I thank you for the good memories of our friendship.
Denise Boyle
September 9, 2012
I remember that day as if it were yesterday:
I retire to bed as Brendan and Matty commiserate about how bad the Giants are performing on Monday night football on Sept 10th,
Early the next morning, Casey runs down to the basement to wake her beloved Uncle Matty with a big "BOOOH" and Matty plays along with a scream saying how much she scared him. Matty would stay at our house prior to an early shift and we would commute together into NYC.
On September 11, 2001, Matty and I drove into work on a beautiful, clear day. Here's what was on his mind:
he was so proud of Meaghan who had just went off to college
Joyce was in the process of settling (or searching for)a new home and he hoped that they would find something where they would be happy, would build a nice life and there would be good schools for Michael
He talked about how nice it was to see Matt grow into a young adult and how much he was enjoying long conversations they had around the dining table
And he was putting on his "to do" list that he had to make reservations to take Margaret away for a long weekend together to celebrate her birthday - the Marriot(?) where they always shared a good time from dancing to brunch
He dropped me off at 33rd and West St at 7:45, we kissed on the cheek and said we'd see each other soon . . .
While participating in my 8am meeting, a colleague came in to say a plane hit the WTC. At first, we thought it was an accident, and then we watched the events unfold live as the second plane hit.
I recall saying, OMG, my brother-in-law is probably there - he just dropped me off! I had a clear shot of the burning towers from our office. As I looked at the gaping holes in the top of the towers engulfed in flames, I recall saying to a friend - they are going to have to tear them down . . . it wasn't long after that both towers collapsed. I couldn't get Matty out of my mind the rest of the day - to calm my fears I said . . .thank goodness he is a BC - he was probably outside of the buildings . . . little did I know!
I went to bed believing Matty was okay. I smelled the burning steel all night long -- it started to rain heavy and I prayed that it wouldn't interfere with the rescue of victims. It wasn't until the next day that I learned Matty was one of the victimes.
He had left me a voicemail to arrange for picking me up the night before and for months I would listen to it just to hear his voice. I was blessed to have been a part of your life. We still miss you Matty and will never forget. RIP
meaghan ryan
September 9, 2012
Today is 11 years since I last saw you. You told me you loved me and I said "yea ok I'll see you next weekend." Except I wouldn't. I know you know how much I love you, but I would give anything to go back 11 years and say it. I love you and I will never forget that it was the last thing u said to me.
RIP Daddy
meaghan ryan
August 23, 2012
Just saying hi....missing you a lot today.
831
Shannon & Katie Wall
August 8, 2012
Hey Matty!
We just came across this site. I'm happy we did and to see so many people have. You are always in our hearts and have never left our minds. You have a beautiful family and would be extremely proud of all. Gone but absolutely never forgotten Matty..We love you!
Shatie and Kannon :)
Stacey Simon
July 26, 2012
I went to high school with Joyce Ryan and I remember your family...I remember spending time with Joyce after school (that is how I remember your family). I recently moved back to Plainedge and I saw the street sign (above Duff Place): it is named "Matthew Ryan" and I remembered the name. Matthew Ryan is a hero. I hope he knows how grateful we are for his bravery and selflessness.
The boss
July 2, 2012
831
Meaghan Ryan
June 17, 2012
Happy father's day daddy! I love and miss you!
Today is Elizabeth's 1st birthday, and she wishes you a happy father's day. It couldn't be anymore fitting that her birthday party is the same day as your birthday. I know you smiled when it worked out that way. You would be so proud of her. We love you!
Meaghan Ryan
November 24, 2011
10 years ago on the day before Thanksgiving we laid your body to rest. I don't miss you any less than I did then. We still listen to Alice's Restaurant at 12:00 every year, I just wish you were here to annoy me with your singing along, I would give anything to hear your voice again. I love you, and I hope you and Nanny have a happy thanksgiving now that you are together again.
Amber Walker
September 10, 2011
I don't know much about Mr. Ryan but for September 11, 2011 I will be changing my Facebook profile picture to his. In remembrance of 9/11 and in remembrance of Mr. Ryan. May you never be forgotten.
Meaghan Ryan
September 9, 2011
10 years ago today you and mom dropped me back off at UHA. You were mad at me for piercing my face, dying my hair and cutting it all off. You still made it a point to tell me you loved me as you hugged me good bye and I told you I would see you next weekend.
So much has changed since I saw you last but there is not a day that goes by that I don't think of you. I miss you more than words can say and wish Elizabeth could meet you. I thank you for being there with me during my delievery and making sure everything went smoothly. She is so beautiful and you would love her so much.
I love you dad and miss you more than you will ever know.
RIP 9/11/01
Mary Anne O'Dwyer Korin
May 31, 2011
Thank you for sharing this link Meaghan, I have since shared it on my facebook page.
Your father and my mother were first cousins and I have many fond memories of your Dad when we visited your grandmother's home in Brooklyn. I'm sorry to say we didn't see much of each other as we grew older.
I am incredibly sorry for your loss, and I hope that you know that, even though we don't know each other, you and your family are thought of very often. I'm sure that I'm not alone in saying that. Love to all the Ryans <3
Meaghan Ryan
May 27, 2011
http://www.not-forgotten.info/www.not-forgotten.info/The_Story.html
JOHN QUINN
May 4, 2011
Hi Meagan,Thought of your dad also the day I heard the news,I hope he knows.
Meaghan Ryan
May 2, 2011
Thinking of you today Dad. They got him, justice has been served. But it doesn't make me miss you any less. I wish you knew how much this hurts.
Ben Ryan
April 7, 2011
Hey I am doing an research project on Matt Ryan. I am just wondering if anyone knew him and can tell me some personal information on him. Also I am coming up for a New York field trip 5/13/11. (Yes it is Friday the 13th but were still going.)
Meaghan Ryan
March 22, 2011
I just had to tell you how much you have been on my mind lately. I miss you terribly and wish I could actually talk to you but I can't so this will have to do. I wish you were here.
831
-Meaghan
Tom & Tiffany Platt
October 29, 2010
We will always remember and never forget the brave souls of the FDNY. Our thoughts and prayers are always with you.
Meaghan Ryan
October 28, 2010
Not a day goes by that I don't think of you. I love you and miss you more and more everyday.
831
Joseph Revere
September 15, 2007
He was my Probie,
He was my Brother Firefighter,
He is my Friend in Heaven.
Lt.Joe Revere FDNY (Retired)
Hartmut Reinsch
September 10, 2007
In memory of Matthew L. Ryan and all fallen FDNY Fire Fighters!
Sept. 11th 2001
~Always remembered and never forgotten!"~
Greetings from
Firefighter poet Hartmut Reinsch
Toronto / CANADA
PS.>
please visit my Firefighter guest book, with more than 4600 Firefighter entries!
http://tinyurl.com/6muan
Tribute to Firefighters of FDNY!
In the battle against the beastly fire...
They stay together, ready to fight!
To help all the victims of every accident,
committed to rescue, by day and by night.
These are the courageous Firefighters,
In their cities and towns of every land.
They stand together as really true friends,
Routinely they're all working hand in hand.
Everyone of them looks after the other,
Their brotherhood knows no borders...!
They are ready to help in their unselfish way,
Without fear, they follow their orders!
Many of them gave their lives in New York,
On September the eleventh, two thousand and one...!
Firefighters everywhere will remember that day,
And their feelings of loss will never be gone.
Written by Hartmut Reinsch
(FIRE Fighter Poet)
September 16, 2001 Toronto Canada
May we always remember their sacrifice,
in their quest to help and save the lives of innocent victims,
on that tragic day of Sept. 11. 2001 in New York City, USA.
A word after..., from "ground zero!"
What we are left with,
surrounded by death and fear,
is our sense of loyalty and of duty...
which calls upon us
to place a shining beacon of hope in this world,
and to entrust the universal darkness
to the light of God.
H. Reinsch. Toronto 2001
kristine
May 1, 2007
As I stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.
P Tabbernor
February 27, 2007
In memory....
Carolyn Permenter
September 11, 2006
Today is the 5th Anniversary of the loss of your loved one, my deepest condolences go out to you and yours... I have a bracelet with Matthew's name on it and upon this sad day I just had to express my sympathy. I read whatever I can find on him and he seems like he was a wonderful, warm and loving man. May God keep you forever safe!!!
Heather Kervella
September 12, 2003
To the family of Matthew L. Ryan,
Just wanted to let you know that your family is in my thoughts and prayers. I have had a memorial bracelet with his name on it for nearly two years now and wear it often. My mothers cousin also lost her husband in the attacks. He was a firefighter named Michael Montesi and he worked for Rescue 1. My deepest condolences go out to your family. God bless you.
Vin Scelsa
November 9, 2002
Dear Margaret and family,
My public recognition of the enormous compliment Matthew paid to me by being such a devoted fan of "Idiot's Delight" has been a long time coming. Words really cannot express how humbled and moved I am that this man - a stranger to me - was so connected to me through my radio show. For a long time after his story appeared in The New York Times I found it impossible to really grasp the meaning of this. Through Margaret and Matt's friend Artie Mastrangelo I have come to know something of this man: by learning of his love for music and exactly what kind of music he loved.
Matthew and I have a lot in common. We are the same age, our taste in music is almost mirror identical, our long standing marriages to women we met and wed in our early twenties and our love for the families we created with them are shared passions. So, for this man I never met but who knew me well, whose life I entered in a profound way when he listened to me on the radio, I offer some words and music on WFUV 90.7 FM on Saturday November 9, 2002 at around 10 PM. (By mid-week the show will be available permanently in the Idiot's Delight audio archive at www.wfuv.org for streaming on demand.)
To my "brother in spirit" Matthew Ryan I raise my fist in solidarity.
To Margaret, Matthew's family and his co-workers and friends I offer my sincere condolence. Isn't it mysterious and beautiful how we "strangers" are united through Matthew's passion for music? The best way for me to express my emotional support for you all as you continue to live with this loss is to play some of Matt's favorite songs on the radio.
On this weekend following Friday's plaque dedication ceremony for Matthew at Battalion 4/Ladder 18 headquarters on Pitt Street in Manhattan, I honor this brave and beloved man ...
With all respect,
Vin Scelsa
"Idiot's Delight"
WFUV, New York
11/9/02
Patricia Locke-Douglas
October 28, 2002
To the family of BC Matthew L. Ryan,
You are in my thoughts and prayers daily......
I wear a memorial bracelet to honor this special man. The bracelet was given to me by a firefighter that works in a station house in my home town here in Florida. I am a native NYer and come from a long line of NYPD officers and FDNY officers. My family too was so tragically touched on that horrific day when we received a phone call from NY that our cousin LT. Glenn E. Wilkinson was also killed in the towers on that day. May these Heroes Rest in Peace and take comfort in the arms or our Lord and be at Peace in the company of all the brothers that were in Heaven to greet them when they arrived. God Bless all of the Heroes that lost their lives that day.
robert
September 23, 2002
I PLANTED A TREE TO HONOR THE LIFE OF MATTHEW RYAN. MY PRAYERS GO OUT TO THE FAMILY. MAY GOD BLESS YOU, WE WILL NEVER FORGET.
Joseph Watkins
September 20, 2002
Margaret,
I am an old friend and classmate of Matt from St. Mary's. I first met you and last saw Matt at the reunion in Annapolis in the mid 90's. I am so very sorry for your loss and the loss to your children and grandchildren. From those days at St. Mary's I saw Matt as a person who worked and played hard, enjoyed life and was a friend to many. It is absolutely no surprize that his personality extended to you, his family, brother firemen and friends. I will always keep Matt and you and the rest of his family in my prayers. God love you.
Joe Watkins
LT PATRICK MURTAGH
September 10, 2002
DEAR MARGARET JUST SIGNING ON TO LET YOU KNOW YOU AND MATTY ARE IN OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS. WHEN I TOOK THE CAPTAINS TEST IN JUNE I BROUGHT A PICTURE OF MATTY WITH ME TO THE TEST. MATTY ALWAYS HAD A CALMING EFFECT ON ME, AND ALWAYS WAS QUICK WITH A VOTE OF CONFIDENCE.
jim slattery
September 7, 2002
To the Ryan Family
Since about January I have worn a bracelet with Matt's name on it. So I think its about time I introduced myself to you.
For the last 38yrs I have been a Chicago Fire Fighter (115 continous for my family). For the last ten years I have been assigned as Battalion Chief in the 1st Battalion.
Last May I toured Ireland wearing Matt's bracelet and he was remembered over a pint or two.
Just thought I would let you know that the men and women of Battalion 1 in Chicago are thinking of you and praying for you.
Yutzil Montes
September 4, 2002
Gracias por haber salvado la vida de los demas y por haber dado la vida a los demas y quiero que sepas que te admiramos mucho y que eres un gran heroe y que siempre te recordaremos .
JOSEPH RYAN
September 2, 2002
I AM A RETIRED DEPUTY FIRE CHIEF FROM BRIDGEPORT, CT.. I MET MATTHEW IN THE SEVENTYS AT A FUNERAL IN NEW YORK CITY.I HAVE PRAYED FOR HIM FOR ALMOST A YEAR NOW,AND HOPE HE STILL REMAINS IN PRAYERS AND THE THOUGHS OF ALL WHO KNEW HIM.
rachele maurer
August 16, 2002
To the Ryan Family ..
I had just recently stumbled upon this site and saw your husband/father on it.I still to this day can not belive it but I just wanted again to send my sincerest condolences on such an early departure for a wonderful man.
Again I just want to say my thoughts and prayers are always with you....
Rachele
Angie Campbell
May 14, 2002
**********GOD BLESS YOU**********
Annette Ryan
May 9, 2002
Our prayers are with you and the family.
Patty Sussman
April 19, 2002
Dear Margaret,
I'm Sandi's sister. I wanted to let you know how sorry I am for your loss. I remember Matty giving a reading at Sandi & John's wedding a few years back. I understand John was very close with him and that Matty was thought highly among many. You and your family continue to be in my thoughts and prayers.
Fondly,
Patty Sussman
April 16, 2002
DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS WONDERFUL HERO..MATTHEW L.RYAN AND MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS..GOD BLESS AMERICA AND NEW YORK..MAY JESUS AND ST.MATTHEW GREET YOU AT THE GATES OF HEAVEN...AMEN
chris channell
March 18, 2002
Dear Ryan family,
I recently received a memorial bracelet with BC Matthew L. Ryan inscribed on it. I just wanted you to know I will aalways keep you in my thoughts and prayers. Even though I am miles away, I will wear this bracelet each day, and be proud to be a part of BC Ryan's brotherhood. May God bless you and comfort you pain.
Maryellen Vanderoef
March 14, 2002
Dear Margaret and family...As the months go by and time starts to heal your loss please know that we may be seperated by miles but you are always in my thoughts and prayers...your cousin
Barbara Lang
March 1, 2002
Dear Margaret and family: I attended your husband's funeral mass in Seaford. I had a mass said for him at the church but was unable to find out where to send it.
So please accept our condolences and prayers..sorry this note comes so late but I just found this memorial page...Sincerely, Barbara
Eleine Ruokonen
February 10, 2002
Dear Margaret and Family,
For all the years that I have known you all, there is nothing that I can say to make things better.
So many parties, get togethers so much fun. I got to meet you and all your family and friends. And I feel like I became your friend. I can only say how happy I am to have the memories that I have. Thank you.
You know Matt will always be in my thoughts. You all will. My prayers are with you all.
Love, Eleine
Showing 1 - 100 of 105 results
Make a Donation
in Matthew Ryan's name
How to support Matthew 's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Matthew Ryan's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
Sponsored