Michael Francis Ryan

1951 - 2024

Michael Francis Ryan

Sept. 29, 1951 - Jan. 3, 2024

CLEARWATER, FL - Michael F. Ryan, 72, of Clearwater, Florida, passed away in his sleep on January 3rd shortly after his sons said good night and 'I love you' for the final time. Michael was diagnosed with cancer in August and fought hard each day until the Lord called him Home.

Michael was born on Long Island, NY in 1951, grew up on Long Island with a couple stints in southern California before graduating from Hicksville High School. He was a highly acclaimed baseball and basketball player. For years to come he never hesitated to share his nickname or yearbook photos showing "High-Scoring Mike Ryan". He attended St. John's University, worked and lived on Long Island where he met his future wife Patricia (Fitzgerald).

They lived on Long Island but eventually moved upstate to Queensbury, NY. Michael had a successful 35+ year career in the automotive industry in sales, management and consulting, all while raising and coaching three boys. He achieved legendary status playing basketball with his children, his nephew and others, which included putting a basketball court in his backyard and converting his garage to a mini court. He was often quoted as saying he was 'the best shooter in upstate New York', a claim to this day no one can dispute. He retired and enjoyed living in Clearwater, Florida for the last few years with his significant other Sandy.

During his life he went by a number of different nicknames. The aforementioned High-Scoring Mike Ryan, 'Beau' to his buddies growing up, 'Dad' and then 'Big Mike' to his children and their friends, and lastly and lovingly just 'Pop' by his kids, nephew, daughters in law, grand niece and nephew, and grandchildren.

These nicknames help remind us how special he was, always there to provide smart advice or make us laugh. He is fondly remembered for his silly jokes, sharp wit and entertaining stories He was always fun to be around, or to seek counsel from. He touched so many people's lives because of his outgoing personality and sense of humor. If he attended a party you knew it and you had a better time because of it.

He was passionate about sports and physical fitness. In retirement in Florida he coached youth basketball, played pickleball, worked out and swam daily. He loved sending pictures of a beautiful sunset on Clearwater Beach. He frequently traveled to Charlotte, NC to spend time with his grand kids and especially enjoyed watching and supporting them in athletics. He loved NY sports teams, notably the New York Giants. He held season tickets for over 40 years and would attend games with his nephew and kids. His biggest sports passion was thoroughbred horses, where he was an amazing handicapper. Many of his friends were enriched by his shrewd handicapping and picks. He owned numerous horses during his life, notably the winner of the 1997 Wood Memorial who then lost the Kentucky Derby by a nose (with Mike and his family in attendance). He loved Saratoga race track, spending plenty of beautiful August days there with friends and family over the years.

Michael is predeceased by his parents, Frank and Mary Grace; older sister, Eileen; wife, Patricia and youngest son, Matthew.

Us remaining to cherish his memory include his sons: Shawn and Eddie, Shawn's wife Tara, their boys: Patrick, Jack and Kieran, Eddie's wife Jillian and their daughter, Kylie; his nephew, Michael Montelione, wife Dawn and their children: Madison and Joey; his grandson, Matthew Jr. and long time significant other, Sandy Menzer. This is in addition to the countless friends and those lives he touched over the years.

A Funeral Mass will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 51 Mohican St., Lake George, NY on Saturday, February 17th at 10 am. A proper Irish celebration of life will be held for Pop afterwards, additional details to follow online.