Donald A. Ryan Sr.

Donald Arthur Ryan Sr.

It is with profound sadness we announce the passing of Donald (Don) Arthur Ryan, Sr., of Miramichi, NB.  Don passed away peacefully at home on December 16th at the age of 91.  Don was predeceased by his loving wife Gertie Ryan (Cripps) and sons Donald Arthur Jr. and infant son Michael.

Don was born in Digby, NS, to Arthur Willard and Ethel Maude Ryan (Whittus).   He is predeceased by brothers: Richard, Bob and David; and sister, Nancy.  He is survived by his siblings: Patricia (Pat) Ellis of Toronto ON, Joan Robinson of Victoria, BC and Margaret Fessenden of Vancouver, BC.

Don had a long and successful career with the Royal Canadian Air Force as a pilot.  Captain D.A. Ryan made many lifelong friends along the way.   When he retired from the RCAF he joined The Ministry of Transport as an Airways Inspector for several more years before bringing “Gertie” back to the Miramichi.  He loved it as much as she did.

Don thoroughly enjoyed salmon fishing, camping, and playing his fiddle with the Miramichi Retired Five.  Don was a self-taught mechanic who enjoyed fixing cars and tackling any job that required attention.  He couldn’t resist finding a solution to anything.

He is survived by his loving daughters; Carol Cormie (Vic Perry) of Moncton, NB and Janet Taylor (Ian) of Elmira, ON; daughter-in-law, Gail Ryan of Saint John, NB; and son, Timothy (Debbie) of Charlottetown, PEI.  He is fondly remembered by grandchildren: Courteney, Sean, Ryan, Michael, Erin; and great-grandchild, Llewyn; and many nieces and nephews.

A public Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at St. Michael’s Basilica on Monday, June 6th, 2022 at 11 AM with The Reverend Father Antonio Reyes as Celebrant.  Music for the service was provided by David Bunnell.  The songs were:  "Trust in God Alone", "Hallelujah", "Shelter Me Oh Lord", "Taste and See", and "Ava Maria".  The scripture readings and Prayers of the Faithful were read by Nancy Cripps.  Interment was in St. Michael's Cemetery.

A special thank you to Dr. G. Losier and the nurses at the Horizon’s Miramichi Regional Hospital who took such good care of Don.  As well, a special thank you to the amazing friends in his community that also helped him throughout the years.  Please know that the family is forever grateful for your love and support.

Arrangements were entrusted to Adams Funeral Home Ltd., 140 King St., Miramichi, telephone (506) 773-3492 or messages of condolence may be sent online to www.adamsfh.ca

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