John-Ryan-Obituary

John D. Ryan

Portland, Oregon

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Portland, Oregon

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Ryan, John D. 90 Dec. 20, 1920 Dec. 19, 2011 John D. Ryan - lawyer, poet, author, orator, wit, literary activist, friend and the best kind of husband - passed away on Monday, Dec. 19, 2011, just one day shy of his 91st birthday. John was born the second son of Thomas G. Ryan and Virginia Hadley...

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John's 90th B-day @the MacClub PDX

I miss John! Everyone that knew him, loved and respected him as much as one can. John will never be matched. And we are all better for knowing him and loving him. I was happy to spend many hours with John, trying to keep up with his quick wit and logic. His advice in business was always spot on. And his cook books provide the best Northwest home cooking that can be found. We are blessed that his family helped him write his book "One Man's Army" before his 90th, and John helped me finish a...

John Ryan was never introduced to me formally. But, I was one of many lawyers who witnessed the amazing oratorical skills of this wonderful man. He was an example to us all of the power of the spoken word when delivered with the vast working vocabulary of this man. I have read his poetry as well and found it entertaining, soothing and comforting. My best of wishes to John's family. His passing is a loss to the entire community.

John Peterson
Hillsboro, OR

Grandpa John is an amazing and brilliant man. He raised the bar. I've never met anybody like him. He was so loved and admired by so many. I am so happy that he lived such a full and productive life. He always reminded me of Thomas Edison in that he never tired in his his quest for knowledge. Also, of Michelangelo in that he was a true Renaissance man. He gave me a piece of advice 30 years ago that I'll never forget...He said, "If you owe someone even one penny, then you are in debt." ...

My father, Ed Stamm, was a class mate at Grant High School who frequently spoke of John's bright and inquisitive mind as well as his warmth and caring ways. As a young lawyer I personally benefited from John's encouragement and mentoring. He positively touched many people for which his legacy will carry on.

Dear Virginia: What a great man your John was and funny to the core! My memories of him go back to my childhood as he and my brother, Harry Turtledove, took the reins of Grant High school and ran with them. The story of the books from the University Club's Library was one I had heard before, from Harry, but enjoyed it even more on Wednesday. We have lost two towering figures this year; they had no equals. To you and John's extended family our heartfelt condolences. Alice and Paul Meyer

A life well and fully lived. You will be missed my friend.
Michael G. Hanlon
J.P. Crowley Hanlon

i am only sad that he did not take me with him.

My loving Uncle John, you inspired us all with your knowledge and made us smile with your humor. I will miss our wonderful conversations. A good man, a great friend.

~Holly & Richard Parker

I am so sorry for your loss of this splendid man. Come to Houston soon.
Ralph Berkeley