John Michael Ryan

August 5, 1967 - September 26, 2020

It is with profound sadness, that despite over 15 years of hard fought sobriety, we must share that John Michael Ryan lost his battle with alcoholism.

The combination of John’s quick wit and intelligence could captivate a room. That was the performer in him, the artistic soul that showed itself young through drawing and brought him to his love of music. What joy music and performing in Birds At the End of the Road brought him as he extended his family to include his brothers from his band and fans that became friends.

When he became UJ (Uncle John) to his nieces and nephews, he found a connection to the fun loving joyful heart of children that he didn’t realize he had. The care, dedication, and love he gave to our parents showed his depth and tender heart. He loved tradition and family, from Mom’s gift of the whole Johnson Clan to Dad’s connection to the Englerts.

Maybe it was the love of tradition that made him an erudite historian, especially regarding his historic firearms collection. The artist in him saw the beauty in the engineering, designs, and stories that shaped guns over the years.

To say that John’s death is tragic may seem trite or cliché, however it’s the only word that reflects reality. We all have our own demons, and whatever those were for John are now gone. Our hearts are heavy with sadness because of possibilities lost. We will miss you so much John. Our only consolation is that you are now at peace.

John was born in Buffalo, NY. He moved with his family to live in Emerson, NJ; Gorham, ME; and Grayslake, IL. As an adult, John lived in Chicago, IL and Libertyville, IL. His parents Jean and Jack Ryan proceeded him in death. He is survived by his two younger siblings: sister, Anne (Ryan) Mass [Mike] and brother, Michael Ryan [Tracy]. Loved by his nieces and nephews: Jessica, Jake, and Katie Ryan as well as Ryan and Danny Mass. John knew the love and respect of many friends over the years and across the miles. He was a man of history and had an outstanding memory. He never forgot any of you!

**Respecting Covid safety restrictions we aren’t having a traditional funeral gathering. As we wrap our hearts and heads around John’s death we will get creative about how and when to come together to honor and mourn him. We will post something on Facebook and pass the word once something is set.

If anyone wants to give a memorial in his name, please no flowers or money to Anne or Mike. We ask that you give financial support to his AA family at Serenity House in Libertyville, IL. You can send donations through their website: serenityhouseoflibertyville.org or mail to: Serenity House of Libertyville, 1103 W. Park Ave, Libertyville, IL 60048