Obituary of William J. Ryan

William 'Bill' J. Ryan, our loving father, grandfather, uncle, and friend passed away on February 3rd to join his wife Patty, as he entered the gates of heaven. Bill was predeceased by his parents, William and Catherine Ryan, his beloved wife Patty, his sister Kathleen, special brother Father Philip Doyle, daughter in-law Joanne Stoehr, as well as his granddaughter Patty Jo. Bill is survived by his children, whose lives he impacted more than he will ever know: Henry (Carol) Stoehr, Cathy Stoehr, Jay (whom Bill referred to as 'Turkey') (Jonna) Stoehr, Fred (Christine) Stoehr, and his 'baby' Mary (Dan) Igo. He leaves behind grandchildren whom he adored: Kellie, Jayme, Casey, Kaitlin (Michael), Ryan (Erin), Kristen, Matthew, as well as his great grandchildren, Malyah and DJ. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews and a host of other relatives, family, neighbors, and friends. Thanks to the neighbors on Sandy Lane for always looking out for him. Special thanks to friends Tom and Judy Kelly for always being there for Bill in good times and bad. Bill grew up in New Rochelle and graduated from Iona College. He served in the US Army and was involved in the Korean conflict. Although Bill was a city boy, falling in love with Patty changed that. He was soon married with five children, establishing their home in Chenango Bridge. He never looked back! Bill's parents were born in Ireland, and he was extremely proud of his Irish roots. He passed his love of Ireland onto the entire family. This included cheering for Notre Dame, proudly displaying the Irish flag, and plenty of Irish dancing and music throughout the years. Everyone entering the home of the Ryan's would be greeted with the 'Cead Mile Failte' sign (A Hundred Thousand Welcomes). If you weren't Irish, you were once you walked through the front door. Bill was proud of his involvement with the Ancient Order of Hibernians (AOH), and he served as both member and President for many years. He was also Chairman of the Binghamton Saint Patrick's Day parade for over 20+ years, and he was honored to be chosen as Grand Marshall in 2006. Bill was a huge NY Giants fan for many years. He also loved the game of golf, especially because it gave him the opportunity to spend time with his sons, son-in-law and grandchildren. We celebrate today because he is reunited with his loved ones, and we mourn because we will miss him terribly. Until we meet again our dear Pop…'May the road rise to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face; the rains fall soft upon your fields and until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of his hand'. A Funeral Mass will be offered at St. Francis of Assisi Church, Chenango Street, Hillcrest, Saturday (February 13th) at 10:00 a.m. Burial will be in Vestal Hills Memorial Park. The family will receive friends at the J.A. McCormack Sons Funeral Home, 141 Main St., Binghamton, Friday (Feb. 12th) from 4-6 pm.