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BORN
1948
DIED
2025
Richard Ryan Obituary
October 6, 1948 - May 12, 2025
Richard A. Ryan, 76, of Spring Hill, Tennessee, formerly of Bloomington, died in a motorcycle accident Monday, May 12, 2025.
Dick was born October 6, 1948 in Springfield a son of Joseph Stewart and Ruby (Witham) Ryan.
He is survived by Denise Dunn, Spring Hill, Tennessee, Maureen (McCaffrey) Ryan, Carlock, Illinois, two sons Edward J. "Joe" (Jennifer) Ryan, St. Charles, Illinois and Michael R. (Daniel) Ryan, Boston, Massachusetts, two granddaughters Sarah Ryan, Boise, Idaho and Sidney Ryan, Columbus, Ohio. He is also survived by one brother Wm. Jack (Linda) Ryan, Jacksonville, Illinois and two sisters Marilyn Maisenbacher and Elizabeth Allen both of Springfield as well as several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister-in-law Carole Ann Ryan and brother-in-law Wm. Robert Maisenbacher.
Dick was raised in Springfield. He attended Sacred Heart grade school and Springfield High School, graduating in 1966. Upon graduation he worked as a draftsman for the Illinois Department of Transportation in Springfield and later for Modine Manufacturing in Bloomington and Comprehensive Design in Peoria. On July 23, 1970 he joined the Bloomington Police Department and rose through the ranks. He graduated from Illinois State University in 1988 with a degree in Criminal Justice. He completed nine weeks of training at the F.B.I. National Academy in Quantico, Virginia in 1995 and was promoted to Chief of Police in 1997. He retired from the Bloomington Police Department on July 28, 2000 after 30 years of service.
Since retiring he became an avid Harley rider and enjoyed traveling on his bike.
He will be laid to rest at Sacred Heart Cemetery in Franklin, Illinois.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Richard Ryan
4 Entries
Sandra Parker
June 4, 2025
What a loss to everyone who knew him. He was a true example of everything we desire and deserve in a law enforcement officer. I knew him from my days as the Circuit Clerk. My sympathy to all.
Trent Johnson
June 3, 2025
I am so sorry to hear about Dick. We had a lot of Great times back in the late 70's and early 80's at Muzzle Loading events. He served me the Best Deer Steak I ever had at a Rendezvous in the Fall of 1981. I have never forgotten that meal. He will be missed. Trent
Robert (Bobby) Frank
June 3, 2025
Prayers are with you and the family. Worked with Dick until I Retired in 1992. Great person to be around.
Tom and Shara Anderson
June 3, 2025
Sorry to hear about his passing. Was always there for me and my family. Taught me many things about life and being outdoors. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Ryan Family.
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