He was born on July 29, 1941 in Fort Frances, ON to Edward and Ann Ryan. He grew up in Fort Frances moving away as a young man to travel and work. He took several trips across Europe, learning about his Irish and Ukrainian Heritage. Jim loved to read and this passion lead him to work in the library in both Thunder Bay and Calgary. After the passing of his father, Edward, he returned to Fort Frances to help his mom. He was an active member of the St. Mary’s Parish and sang in the choir for many years. Being an avid reader Jim was a keen supporter and a member of the Friends of the Library. Jim loved to watch the Blue Jays and cheer on his favourite players. He had a keen memory and could rattle off player and team stats whenever asked. James had a great circle of friends and family, he kept close with them all.
Jim leaves behind his brother Paul and wife Gay Lynn of Fort Frances, ON; nieces Lisa and husband Kevin Blanchard and their sons Colten and Gage of International Falls, MN and Karla and husband Karl Bodnar and their children Kai and Kiril of Fort McMurray, AB as well as many Ryan and Harasymyk cousins.
James was predeceased by his parents Edward and Ann as well as several aunts and uncles from the Ryan and Harasymyk families.
Friends are invited to join the family for a Celebration of James’ life on Saturday, April 14, 2018 at 11 a.m. at St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church in Fort Frances, ON.
The pallbearers will be Kevin Blanchard, Gage Blanchard, Colten Blanchard, Garry Wilde, Randy Wilde and Dan Tausendfrende.
The honourary pallbearers will be Karl Bodnar, Kai Bodnar and Kiril Bodnar.
If friends so desire in memoriam donations may be made to the Rainycrest Auxiliary, 550 Osborne Street, Fort Frances, Ontario, P9A 3T2.
Online condolences may be made in care of www.greenfuneralhomefortfrances.com.
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Rainycrest Auxiliary550 Osborne Street, Fort Frances, Ontario P9A 3T2
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