James Bernard Ryan

RYAN, James Bernard - In his own home with the comfort of family by his bedside, on March 25, 2009, in his 86th year, after valiant efforts to overcome the effects of a stroke suffered on February 18, 2009. Survived by his sister, Bernadette Devorski. Predeceased by his parents Catherine and James Ryan, siblings Catherine (Kitty), Mary, Margaret, John (Jack). A WWII veteran, Jim volunteered with the Canadian Armed Forces in 1942. After spending five years in Europe and becoming collectively responsible for the freedom we are all enjoying today, Jim returned to Canada and proposed to Beatrice (nee Melancon) who was the love of his life for 62 years. He was a loving and generous father and provider to their children: Teresa (Teri), Mary, James, Lorraine (Lori), and Lynn; a warm and caring father-in-law to Jack, Hannah, Martin and former son-in-law Colin; a proud grandpa to Jennifer (Paul), Sarah (Lutz), Heather, Laura, Christopher, Brandon, Shanelle, and Emily; and dear great-grandpa to Mitch and Sam. Jim worked at W.C. Wood Company in Guelph for 47 years. He began as a tool and die maker and then moved on to become foreman, superintendent, and then on to outside/travelling sales before retiring. It is hard to imagine the rest of our lives without Jim Ryan. There was no one else like him. He would do anything for us and gave anything to us that we needed. His love was unconditional. He is, and will always be, missed terribly. Friends are encouraged to help celebrate Jim's life by joining the family on Sunday, March 29, 2009 at Gilbert MacIntyre & Son Funeral Home, Hart Chapel, 1099 Gordon Street., Guelph for Memorial Visitation from 1-2 p.m., Celebration of Life at 2 p.m., where everyone is welcome to share memories with the group of the way Jim touched theirs lives. Private cremation has taken place. Interment of ashes to be held at a later date. In recognition of Jim being a generous and longtime donor to MS Society, Operation Eyesight Universal, Heart and Stroke Foundation, and many other charities, in lieu of flowers, you may make a donation to one of the above or plant a tree or garden, or install a backyard birdfeeder in Jim's memory. Charity cards are available at the funeral home 519-821-5077. (Condolences may be sent to www.gilbertmacintyreandson.com)

A Celebration of Life will take place in the funeral home chapel on Sunday, March 29, 2009 at 2 p.m.