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HENRY RYAN Obituary
Dr. Henry B. Ryan "Duke"
Passed away peacefully on November 4, 2019, at the age of 88 after a long battle with prostate cancer. He is survived by his wife Patricia B. Ryan; son William W. Ryan; daughter-in-law Carla I. Ryan; and his granddaughters, Katie, Annabelle and Lydia. Duke Ryan served with distinction as a U.S. diplomat in Brazil, Norway and Australia. He earned his doctorate at Trinity College, Cambridge and was a Life Member of Clare Hall. The author of several books, he also wrote many plays that were performed in the U.S. and U.K. He will be deeply missed by his loving family and his many friends around the world. A celebration of his life will be held at the Palisades Community Church Hall, 5200 Cathedral Ave NW, Washington, DC at 3 p.m., Saturday, December 14, 2019. Memorial contributions may be sent to Capital Caring Hospice at capitalcaring.org.
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Memories and Condolences
for HENRY RYAN
lewis murray
November 7, 2024
What a fine gentleman Duke Ryan was. In my book, this is the highest competent and memory of this bright, amusing, generous and caring man.
Michael O'Hanlon
November 4, 2020
Wow would I have loved to discuss this election with Duke! He would have been passionate, I'm sure, but also would have had a dry wit and a reassuring reaction and a broader perspective that could help anyone on either side of this tense moment. Most of all, I miss him still but remain very happy to have known him so long. He and Patti and William and family are all so important to Cathy and me and the gals. With very fond memories and deep condolences, Mike
Melissa Hess
November 28, 2019
Patty, David and I send our sincerest condolences to you and your family.
Jan Smart
November 26, 2019
I met Duke through his volunteer work with Palisades Village; in particular his marvelous plays with which he entertained and amused us. Vale Duke; thanks for the wonderful memories. My condolences to Duke's family and his many friends.
Constance C Jones
November 25, 2019
He was a charming, talented, much appreciated colleague and friend - and I loved his plays! May we all remember him at his best and keep his memory alive.My condolences to his family.
Ann La Porta
November 25, 2019
Dear Patty,
You know how much Al and I cared for Duke. We will all miss him. Love Ann
Catherine (Kitty) Allen
November 25, 2019
I only just became aware of Duke's passing. I made his acquaintance some years ago in an acting class, and I very much enjoyed his plays and his marvelous creative life. It was a treat to visit him and Patty in their lovely home. I am so very sad that he is gone. I'm committed to another memorial, in New York City, at the same time as Duke's, so I won't be able to attend. Sending all my good wishes, Kitty Allen
Cynthia Walker
November 25, 2019
The most lovely gentleman in the world. He will be sorely missed by all who came in contact with him. My deepest sympathies to Patty and the family. So glad you got your 60th in Sarasota.
Michael O'Hanlon
November 25, 2019
This is difficult news to process. What a loss. On the one hand, Duke lived a fantastic life and a long life and achieved, accomplished, and enjoyed so much. He was a role model of a modern renaissance man--and a modern family man. There is nothing he left undone. On the other hand, for all those reasons, the world is a lesser place--and our lives are less happy--without him. He goes back to the beginning for Cathy and me; we met at the Saturday morning learning program where we volunteered and he ran the show, with a kind and gentle yet firm hand that always put the kids' interests first. Just absolutely loved the guy. Somewhere between a big brother and an adopted uncle to me. I know Cath feels the same. Deepest condolences to Patricia, William, and all. With love, M&C
David lambertson
November 24, 2019
Our sympathy and love to Patty and the family. It was a privilege to know Duke, and always a pleasure to be around him. We will miss him. Love, David and Sacie
November 24, 2019
My deepest condolences to the family. May the God of all comfort sustain your family during the days ahead. Psalms 119:76
Lewis and Giorgina Murray
November 24, 2019
Giorgina and I are so sorry we can not attend Duke's memorial service, as we are out of the country until mid-December. But we recall with much warmth our friendship with this good person and we deeply regret his passing. Lewis and Giorgina Murray in Rome, Italy
Barry Phelps
November 12, 2019
I'm so sorry for the loss of your father. I had the privilege of visiting with him several times over the years and always enjoyed his sense of humor and insight. He was a dignified gentleman.
Rogene Waite
November 10, 2019
So sorry for the loss of a brilliant, charming, witty and compassionate friend. Duke will be missed by all those he and his family have touched around the world. Deepest condolences, Patricia, and family.
Ellen & Scott Jackson
November 10, 2019
Sending our deepest sympathy.
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