William "Bill" Richard Ryan

William “Bill” Richard Ryan, 85, passed away Saturday, October 27, 2012, at Kennybrook Village in Grimes.

Richard was born August 1, 1927, in West Des Moines, to Ray and Goldie Ryan. He attended East High School until the 11th grade, when he left to serve his country. He served two years in the Navy and four years in the Army. While in the Navy, Richard served on the USS Dane (APA-238) until June of 1946, then on the USS Muir. In February of 1947, he joined the Army as a Private First Class with the 4th Constabulary serving in Linz, Austria. Upon his return to the states, he served in the Army Reserves, 396 Transportation Unit.

Richard married Virginia Green in April of 1949. He retired from Iowa Power after 32 years of service. He also enjoyed working at the Iowa State Fair for 40 years. Richard loved history, Civil War reenacting, collecting Civil War antiques, and was in the antique business for 20 years. After retiring, he enjoyed traveling. Richard had been to Germany, Australia, Switzerland, Ireland, France, Hawaii, on several cruises, and in 2009 he participated in the Honor Flight. He was also able to enjoy the 2012 Iowa State Fair. Richard was a member of the First Christian Church in Panora.

Richard is survived by his wife of 63 years, Virginia; children, Richard “Rick,” Wreta “Ret,” and Rodney “Rod”; sister, Mary; six grandchildren; and ten great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ray and Goldie; brothers, Ray and Harold; and three great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, November 1, 2012, at Hamilton’s Funeral Home, 605 Lyon Street, followed by burial at Laurel Hill Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to Southern Care Hospice.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at Kennybrook Village.

Online condolences may be expressed at:
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com

Print