New London, New Hampshire
1934 - 2009
NEW LONDON -- Roger Henry Ryan, 75, died Sept. 30, 2009, at his home.
He was born in Claremont, March 1, 1934, to Fred and Marion (Horton) Ryan. He graduated from Stevens High School in Claremont in 1952 and attended Tufts University.
He spent more than 50 years as a life insurance underwriter, specializing in retirement and estate planning. He was successful in his own business for many years and most recently was affiliated with William Rowett Jr. and William Rowett III in Claremont and New London.
During his career, he achieved several professional designations, including chartered life underwriter and chartered financial consultant. He was a member of the Society of Financial Service Professionals and served in leadership positions in many religious, professional, fraternal and community organizations.
IN HIS LIFE: He married the love of his life, Carolyn Chase, on Sept. 26, 1953. In addition to his wife, he is survived by three daughters, Sharon Braly and husband, Scott, of Exeter, Mary Noviello and husband, James, of Winchester, Mass., and Martha Papas and husband, Theo, of Andover, Mass.; five grandchildren, Alan Braly of Boston, Lauren (Braly) Heal of Epping, Jonathan Papas of Andover, Mass., David Papas of Andover, Mass., and Kathryn Troiano of Woburn, Mass.; one brother, Harry Ryan and wife, Claire, of Charlestown; one sister, Dorothy Luce and husband, Arthur, of Claremont; and numerous nephews and cousins.
He was preceded in death by older brother, William Ryan.
He was a great friend to all and his passion was in finding a connection with everyone he met. He shared his wisdom, generosity and humor, always quick with a joke or story.
He and his wife traveled the world with family and friends. A man of varied interests, he was blessed with a beautiful tenor voice and sang with several church choirs and barbershop quartets. He enjoyed expressing himself through painting, was an avid sports fan, and a big supporter of Colby Sawyer athletics.
SERVICES: The family will receive visitors at the Chadwick Funeral Service, 235 Main St., New London, Saturday from 2 to 5 p.m. A celebration of life service will be at First Congregational Church, 72 Pleasant St., Claremont, Sunday at 2 p.m. A reception will follow in the downstairs Fitch Hall.
Memorial donations be made to American Diabetes Association, 249 Canal St., Manchester 03101; Claremont Soup Kitchen, PO Box 957, Claremont 03743; or KLS Community Food Pantry, PO Box 336, New London 03257.
Dear Mary & Martha,
So sorry to hear of your Dad's death. I have been unsuccessful at finding you on line to send you both sympathy cards. My sympathies to you both.
--Catherine A. Rivard
Catherine Rivard
October 25, 2009 | Simsbury, CT
Carolyn & Family,
So sorry to hear of Roger's passing. I'm so glad that I came to know you both through your travels.
Janet McGray
October 08, 2009
Just a few weeks ago I had the privilege of getting to know Roger while sharing several meals with him at the the Northeast Planning Firm meeting. We became fast friends as he entertained with business stories and several jokes. Roger was a gentleman and a class act. I know that NPA has lost a great fellow and I can't imagine the loss that Roger's family is feeling. My deepest condolenses to all.
Don Silk
October 07, 2009 | Dover, NH
I knew Roger fairly well from 1988-1998. He was instrumental in convincing me that working in an insurance company environment was stifling my personal growth and achievments. Whatever success I have achieved in twenty years as an independent financial planner is, in part, due to Roger. I know he will be missed by family and friends and his memory cherished by all.
Brian Grodman
October 06, 2009 | Manchester, NH
Roger Ryan. A heart of gold always. A Loving husband (60yrs) Father (50yrs), Grandfather (30yrs), Educator, Benefactor and Artist. Roger was an artist who helped create a masterpiece with Carolyn. One not of brillant colors, nor skillfull brushsrokes nor complex patterns. But a masterpiece of eight wonderful individuals: Sharon, Mary, Martha, Alan, Lauren, Jonathan, David and Katie. They collectively illustrate the brilliance of Roger & Carolyn's Masterpiece.
Theo Papas
October 05, 2009 | Andover, MA
Dear Carolyn and Family. You know what a special relationship we had over the years. I remember Roger's determination to sell me life insurance. Frequent attempts to discourage him did not work. Our friendship over the past 47 years has meant a lot to me. My sincere sympathy to you and the girls. Wish I could have been there for the celebration of his life. Best regards
Richard Rodgers
October 04, 2009 | Deltaville, VA
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Carolyn and family. Roger has been a dear friend for many, many years. His advice, wisdom and jokes that he passed on to our employees and us will live on. We will all miss Roger in the restaurant with his quick smile and kind words.
John and Tracey MacKenna
October 03, 2009 | New London, NH
I loved when Roger did Benny the 'bug' with me and i taught him itsy bitsy 'pider' but he always needed help. i will miss him.
Aila Wenger
October 03, 2009 | Sunapee, NH
Old blue eyes had nothing on Roger. His music will be in our memories and he sure "Did It His Way" Our thoughts are headed your way.
Marion Stone, Thomaston Maine
Kathy Stone, Litchfield, Maine
Sherry & John Gregory, Litchfield,Maine
October 02, 2009
