Charles Wesley Ryan

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved father, Charles W. Ryan, on April 16, 2025, at the age of 92. Born in Derby, Connecticut, on February 19, 1933, Charles lived a full and meaningful life marked by love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to his family.

Charles was a guiding light in the lives of all who knew him. His kindness, warmth, and sharp sense of humor left a lasting impression on everyone he met. A proud Navy veteran, Charles served his country with honor aboard the USS Sierra from April 1950 to November 1953.

Above all, Charles was a devoted husband to the late Gena (Hooks) Ryan, a loving father to Gena (Lynn) Kirkland, Charles (Wesley) Ryan, and James Ryan, and a cherished grandfather and great-grandfather. His family was the heart of his world, and he dedicated his life to providing love, support, and wisdom to those he held dear.

He found immense joy in simple pleasures—boating, fishing, and spending time on the water—but what he loved most was sharing stories and reflecting on the memories that shaped his life. Whether recounting adventures or offering thoughtful insights, Charles had a special way of bringing people together through his words and presence.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Gena (Hooks) Ryan; his mother, Marion (Housel) Ryan Griffin; father, William Ryan; stepfather, Wilkie Griffin; and brother, Wilkie (Buster) Griffin Jr.

He is survived by his three children: Gena (Lynn) Kirkland, Charles (Wesley) Ryan (Peggy Ryan), and James Ryan. He leaves behind seven grandchildren: Christina York, Angela Kerr (Josh Kerr), Deana Beaton (Chris Beaton), Kerry Galadza (Roman Galadza), James Ryan Jr. (Taylor Garcia), Josh Ryan (Savannah Cogswell), and Jake Ryan. He was also blessed with five great-grandchildren: Caitlyn York, Ryan York, Jackson Kerr, Adelyn Kerr, and Charlotte Ryan. Charles is also survived by his sister, Marion Ryan Swindle, and brother, William Ryan.

We will forever carry Charles in our hearts, holding close the stories he told, the lessons he shared, and the love he so freely gave.

Charles leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and a life well-lived—a legacy we will honor by holding each other a little closer, laughing a little louder, and living with the same kindness he so effortlessly gave.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. at Kays-Ponger & Uselton Funeral Home, 635 E. Marion Avenue, Punta Gorda, Florida. Services will commence at 1:00 p.m. Family and friends are warmly invited to attend and celebrate the beautiful life of Charles W. Ryan. Please join us immediately following the Service for a Celebration of Life at Jim Ryan's House 38885 Washington Loop Road Punta Gorda FL.