Mary Ann Ryan

Mary Ann Ryan, age 81, of Shoreview, MN, passed away peacefully into the arms of her Savior on July 24, 2025. Born on August 13, 1943, in St. Brendan’s, Newfoundland, Mary was the eldest of eight children of Michael James and Anne Croke. After graduating high school, she attended Littledale College, where she earned her teaching license. Mary began her teaching career in St. Brendan’s and later taught in Windsor and Placentia. One of the highlights of her teaching years was having her younger sister, France, as a fifth-grade student—an experience that created many fun memories. It was in Placentia that she met the love of her life, Joe Ryan, who was stationed at the nearby American Naval Base in Argentia. 

Mary eventually left Newfoundland to begin a new chapter in the United States with Joe. Together, they raised three children and were blessed with eight grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren, who were the light of her life. Mary worked many years at Columbia Park Clinic, where her lively spirit, and genuine interest in others earned her many lasting friendships. A proud Newfoundlander at heart, Mary loved her homeland, dancing a Canadian jig, cheering on her favorite hockey teams, and sharing her famous potato salad and homemade pies at family gatherings. She brought energy, enthusiasm, and laughter wherever she went. Mary had a gift for keeping everyone in line—with a firm but loving hand. A woman of deep faith, she prayed daily for those she loved and lived her life as a testament to the importance of faith and family. 

She is preceded in death by her parents, Michael and Anne Croke, parents-in-law, Pat and Verna Ryan, and her sister-in-law, Linda Croke (Felix). Mary will be deeply missed by her beloved husband of 58 years, Joseph Patrick Ryan; her children: Karen Cater (Dan), Patrick Ryan (Rosie), and James Ryan (Ariana); her grandchildren: Jessie, Samantha, Anthony, Zachary, Jordan, Matthew, Brendan and Alexander; her great-grandchildren: Aydayn, Calvin, and Landon; her siblings: Rich Croke (Margaret), Felix Croke, Kathleen Parsons (Wayne), France Lemon (Brian), Michael Croke (Patricia), Albert Croke, and Leonard Croke (Joan); her siblings-in-law, Joseph Robert Ryan (Patricia), Margie Burzynski (Michael), Anthony M. Ryan; many nieces, nephews, and many dear friends.

There will be a Memorial Mass in Honor of Mary on Thursday, August 14, 2025, at 11:00 AM, with visitation being held one-hour prior to Mass. Service will take place at St. Clement Catholic Church, 901 24th Avenue NE, Minneapolis, MN. Immediately following the Mass will be a luncheon at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Colby Hall, 1621 University Avenue, Minneapolis, MN. Inurnment will take place at Morningside Memorial Gardens following lunch.