

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Rick Gerard Ryan of Sarasota, Florida, on March 8, 2026. Rick was born in Toledo, Ohio, on March 20, 1957, to Howard and Loretta Ryan. With Rick’s departure, we remember a life lived with love, faith, and a deep sense of service.
Rick attended Central Catholic High School and the University of Toledo for his bachelor’s degree. Later, he attended the University of Illinois School of Public Health, where he received a Master of Public Health with an emphasis in Health Resource Management.
Rick leaves behind his loving wife, Anne Marie Ryan. Rick and Anne were married on November 14, 1987, and they spent many happy years together. Her love, friendship, and support served as the foundation of his life.
Rick’s life was one marked by service—in his career, in his community, and in his faith. As President and CEO of CHI Living Communities (Franciscan Living Communities), his tireless efforts improved the lives and experiences of innumerable families. Devoted to improving the world around him, Rick volunteered countless hours with the Knights of Columbus, becoming a Fourth Degree Knight. He was also made a Colonel in the Honorable Order of Kentucky Colonels in recognition of his outstanding service to the community. And most importantly, as a man of deep faith, Rick’s service to God and the Catholic Church was the underpinning of everything that he did. He understood the power of prayer, and it was a constant source of peace and guidance for him.
He will also be remembered for his sense of humor and his ability to make just about anyone laugh—a gift that earned him many lifelong friends. Rick enjoyed fishing and had a passion for golf, both hobbies that allowed him to spend quality time with the people he loved. He loved music and enjoyed everything from La Bohème to Jimmy Buffett. His interest in music and the arts inspired the same in his family and friends.
While incredibly humble in spite of his many accomplishments, he constantly encouraged his family and friends to be better versions of themselves. His lifelong striving to do his best in everything he did remains a lasting example to all those who knew him.
He is survived by his wife, Anne Ryan; children Michael and Andrea Ryan; niece Julianna Restivo; nephew Dominic Restivo; great-nephew Francis Barton; and many dear friends.
Rick was preceded in death by his parents, Loretta and Howard Ryan; his sister, Terrie Ryan Restivo; and his infant son, Kevin James Ryan.
A Memorial Mass will be held at St. Thomas More Catholic Church in Sarasota, Florida, at 10:30 AM on March 23, 2026, with interment to follow in Mary’s Garden on the campus of the church. The Memorial Mass will also be live-streamed at http://www.stthomasmoresrq.org.
In lieu of flowers or gifts, please consider making a donation in Rick’s honor to the St. Thomas More Twelve Baskets Food Pantry, 2506 Gulf Gate Dr., Sarasota, FL 34231, or online at https://www.stthomasmoresrq.org/food-pantry.
SHARE OBITUARYSHARE
v.1.18.0