Michael Joseph Ryan

Michael Joseph Ryan, cherished husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather, passed away on December 7, 2025 in the presence of his wife, daughters, and grandchildren. He was born on April 2, 1948 to Ed and Sarah Ryan, who instilled in him the values of hard work, kindness, and the Irish way. He made indelible marks on every person who had the privilege of being in his presence.

Growing up in Kansas City, Mike attended De La Salle High School, graduating in 1966. He married the love of his life, Mary Kay Wessling, in 1969 and then went on to join the Army National Guard. His thirst for knowledge led him to pursue a bachelor’s degree from UMKC. He spent many years working for Milgram Grocery Store, starting out as a sacker and working his way up to the headquarters level. He had a passion for information technology and retired from Lockton in the mid 2000’s as a Security Information Manager.

Mike’s love of family was his greatest joy in life. Embarking in his marriage with Mary Kay in 1969 led to many years filled with love, laughter and shared dreams. Together, they created a nurturing and loving home for their four daughters, Tina (Mark) Edmiston, Laura (David) Nelson, Jennifer (deceased 2016) Aiello, and Michelle (Gene) Stewart. From those four daughters came eight grandchildren and six great grandchildren, with another on the way. He could often be found shopping with his grandchildren, teaching them to make his famous molasses cookies or doing yardwork on the weekends. Among all his blessings, none brought him greater joy than the grands. They brightened every season of his life.

Mike’s legacy is not only enriched by his immediate family, but also by his surviving siblings, Kathleen Moore, Mary Margaret Seigmond, and John Ryan. He was preceded in death by his beloved daughter Jennifer Aiello, brothers Eddie Pat and Jimmy Ryan, and fellow Irishman Arthur O’Rourke.

A memorial celebration will be held at Our Lady of the Presentation in Lee’s Summit on Friday, December 19, 2025. The Rosary will be prayed at 9:45am followed by a visitation at 10:00am and Mass at 11:00am. We encourage you to stay for lunch afterward, with a menu of all his favorite things. Keeping with Mike’s wishes and practicality, we kindly ask for no flowers, but instead to make a donation, in his name, to Operation Breakthrough in Kansas City.

A special shoutout to Kansas City Hospice House for the dignity and grace they showed at the end of Mike’s life. Another shoutout to Luminary Hospice nurses Amanda and Marilyn for their tenacity and determination. You are the definition of angels on earth.

“May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind be always at your back… And until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand.”