MaryAnn Ryznar

MaryAnn McGhen was born on May 24, 1928, in Dearborn, Michigan. She was one of five children born from the union of Harry and Marguerite (Pettit) McGhen. She graduated from Romulus High School with the class of 1947.
In the 1950s, MaryAnn took on an unusual but vital role, teaching the nuns of the school at St. Aloysius how to drive. This act helped to equip the sisters with the skills they needed to serve their community more broadly. For over thirty years at St. Aloysius School, MaryAnn was a lunch mom, where generations of children grew up under her watchful and caring eye. Her warm demeanor earned her an endearing nickname, with many calling her "Grandma Ryznar".
MaryAnn found so much joy in helping others. This led her to volunteer for Meals on Wheels, a calling she embraced for over twenty-five years. Delivering meals, she not only provided sustenance but also companionship, often being the only friendly face, some would see that day.
Her devotion to her community was never more evident than in her service at St. Al's, where the church benefited greatly from her dedication. For forty-five years, she assisted with funeral lunches, providing comfort and nourishment to grieving families. MaryAnn also played a significant role at the annual festival for fifty years. She served as president of the Altar Society, working tirelessly to support the parish community.
Beyond the church, MaryAnn was a beloved fixture at the Romulus Senior Center, running the game room and finding joy in playing the tambourine in "the band." Her involvement didn't stop there; she was a familiar face at the Romulus Athletic Center too, walking the track daily and cherishing moments of friendship and laughter with her peers.
A lifelong sports enthusiast, MaryAnn was a fervent supporter of Detroit's teams, particularly admiring Alan Trammell and Norm Cash of the Detroit Tiger Baseball Team. Her family fondly recalls memories of attending Ladies' Day at the ballpark, where tickets were just 50 cents. Packing a van and a suitcase full of snacks, MaryAnn and loved ones soaked up the sunshine from the bleachers. Her passion for sports extended to watching the Detroit Lions football and her newfound obsession with women's softball.
MaryAnn Ryznar, age 96 of Romulus, passed away at Cedarwood Assisted Living Facility in Belleville, Michigan on Sunday; February 2, 2025. Her passing was preceded by her parents; her husband John; a son: John Steven; and a daughter: Dorothy.
To cherish her memory, she leaves five daughters: Marsha (Noah Pete) Bergeron of Romulus, Diane (Dave) Terry of Romulus, Elaine (Doug) Frye of Currin, Michigan, Mary Ann (Jerry) Goodman of Romulus, and Susan Finn of Pickney, Michigan; fifteen grandchildren; twenty-two great grandchildren, and one great-great grandson.
Friends may gather from 3:00pm until 8:00pm on Wednesday; February 5, 2025, at Merkle Funeral Service, Romulus (formerly Crane Funeral Home); 36885 Goddard Road, Romulus, Michigan 48174 (734) 941-9200, where the Rosary will be recited at 6:30pm. Prayers will take place on Thursday; February 6, 2025, at 10:30am at Merkle's followed by the Mass of the Resurrection at 11:00am at St. Aloysius Church. A private interment will take place at Michigan Memorial Park Cemetery in Huron Township.
In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to Heart to Heart Hospice or Karmanos Cancer Foundation.
Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.