Maria Ursula Ryan

Maria Ursula Ryan, M.D., age 96, died Monday, October 1, 2013. She was born April 11, 1917 to the late Georg and Antonie (Sollner) Schneider in Wurzburg, Germany. Maria went to school in Germany and earned her M.D. degree from the University of Tubingen in 1941 – the only woman in her class. She was a General Practitioner serving several communities in Bavaria. During this time she met her future husband, William Lenard Ryan who was serving with the US military in Germany. After his tour of duty, Maria followed him to the United States where they were married November 11, 1948. She became certified to practice medicine in this country in 1950 after completing her residency at the old Grant Hospital in Columbus. Dr. Ryan continued her career while raising her family by working for Workman’s Compensation, retiring in 1978, as well as Beulah Park after retirement. She loved history and was well read, and an avid world traveler. She also loved music and expressed that by singing for several years with the Damenchor, then joining the Mannerchor as a social member for the remainder of her life. She lived a full life and succeeded against great odds, living through both World Wars in Germany. In addition to her parents, Dr. Ryan was preceded in death by her husband, William Lenard Ryan. She is survived by her daughter, Toni Ryan; grandchildren, Miranda (Andy) Warren and Stephanie Martin; great-grandchildren, Audrey and Beatrice Warren; brother, Heinrich (Hildegard) Schneider; and nephews Uli (Ingrid) Schneider and Peter Ritter. A Memorial Service will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, October 19 at Glen Echo Presbyterian Church 220 Cliffside Drive, Columbus, Ohio with Pastor Lee Platt officiating. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Senior Independence Hospice 6555 Busch Blvd #200 Columbus, OH 43229.