John D. Ryan

Southwick- John D. Ryan, 77, passed away at his home on April 9, 2018.Born in Hartford on July 10, 1940, he was a son of the late Maximilian and Anna (McGuire) Ryan, and step-mother Jennie (Lombardo) Ryan after Anna's premature death.  John grew up in Watkins Glen, NY and Manchester, CT, graduating from Manchester High School, and then from the University of Connecticut with a degree in Political Science.  John served his country in the U.S. Army during the Cuban Missile Crisis.  A resident of Southwick for over 30 years, John was an active member of the Southwick Democratic Town Committee.Prior to his retirement, John was employed as a Technical Writer for various companies such as Pratt & Whitney, Otis Elevator, Combustion Engineering and Strathmore Paper. He enjoyed reading, writing, the occasional pun, and spending time with his family. John was predeceased by his wife of over 40 years, Rae (Perrin) Ryan in 2016. He was also predeceased by his three brothers, Richard Ryan, Jerry Ryan, and Bill Ryan. John is survived by his four sons and their wives, Conal and Lisa Ryan of Merrimac, MA, Devin and Nicole Ryan of Portland, OR, Matthew and Stephanie Howe of Avon, CT, Douglas and Sheila Howe of Carlisbad, CA; a brother, Greg Ryan of Florida; eight grandchildren, Kaitlyn Howe, Emily Howe, Colby Howe, Granite Howe, Savie Howe, Halle Ryan, Maguire Ryan, Declan Ryan; and several nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members.  The family will receive friends from 4:00PM-7:00PM Monday, April 16, 2018 in the Southwick Forastiere Family Funeral Home. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Southwick Animal Shelter, 11 Depot St., Southwick, MA 01077. Please visit www.forastiere.com to offer a personal note of condolence.