Obituary of Bill Ryans

December 27, 1924 - Silverton, British Columbia

November 20, 2023 - Calgary, Alberta

William (Bill) John Ryans, passed peacefully on Monday, November 20, 2023, in Calgary at the age of 98 years.

He is survived by his son Robert (Shirley), grandchildren, Matt Ryans (Ida), Dallas Ryans (Brooke), Sabrina Ryans (Logan), and Kathleen Ryans (Matthew); great-grandson Archibald, and extended family the Straschnitzkis: Michelle, Tom, Ryan, Jaden, Jett, and Conner; as well as many cousins and close friends. He was predeceased by his wife of 67 years, Dorothy, in 2013 and son Bill in 2004.

Bill was born on December 27, 1924, in Silverton, BC, and grew up playing outside; fishing, camping, and going on adventures with friends. Following the loss of his father at an early age, the family received love and support from the community, which influenced Bill significantly. He spent his life dedicated to helping others.

In 1943, Bill enlisted in the Royal Canadian Air Force, ending up in Calgary for his final posting, where he met his soon-to-be wife, Dorothy. Bill worked at Canadian Western Natural Gas until retirement and devoted his free time to his family, friends, and community. He was chair of the Kinsmen Club in Brooks and took part in creating Kinbrook Island Park. Bill loved animals and received a Lifetime Achievement Award for his volunteer work and intermittent role as president of the Calgary Humane Society. After retiring, he became an active member of the Carstairs Legion and continued helping all those around him. Bill will be remembered for his ability to bring laughter to a room and his love for family, friends, and animals.

A Celebration of Bill’s Life will be held at McInnis & Holloway (Chapel of the Bells, 2720 Centre Street N, Calgary, AB) on Friday, December 1, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. Reception to follow in the Hospitality Centre at the Funeral Home. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Bill’s family here.

If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to The Calgary Humane Society, 4455 – 110th Avenue S.E., Calgary, AB T2C 2T7, Telephone: (403) 205-4455, www.calgaryhumane.ca. 

The family would like to thank the staff at the Carewest Colonel Belcher and the residents of Macewan Ridge Villas for their kindness and empathy for Bill. 

In living memory of William Ryans, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Chapel of the Bells, 2720 Centre Street N, Calgary, AB, Telephone: 403-243-8200.