This past week, Daniel Ryan left behind a 92-year life well-lived; he died on Saturday, November 13, 2021.
A lover and caretaker of grandchildren, gardens, horses, and books, Dan was an opera aficionado, a proud liberal, and firm believer that a good hammock could always be relied on to get you through life’s ups and downs. His heart was full of love for his wife, children, grandchildren, siblings, and neighbors, as well as a gracious tolerance and deep affection for his in-laws. A lifelong learner and educator, he enjoyed passing his wisdom and dry wit, both of which he had in abundance, on to family, friends, colleagues, and students.
He leaves his beloved wife of 50 years, Geraldine Ann; a son Michael A. and his wife Betty of Salem, MA; a daughter Bernadette B. Foley and her husband Brian of West Roxbury, MA; and his sister Anne Ryan of Roslindale, MA. Sadly, he also leaves his wonderful grandchildren, Melissa McBournie, and her husband Cameron, Molly Ryan, and Brian and Jaqueline Foley, in whom he delighted and who were the eye-rolling beneficiaries of his famous Grampy wisdom.
In addition to the many joys in his life, Dan also experienced the deep sadness and loss of those who left this earth before him. He was preceded in death by his wife Helen Louise; daughters Roberta and Judy; brother Bernard; and sister Mary.
Dan was born in Boston on February 20, 1929. But for his Uncle-Sam financed travels as a U.S. Marine, he spent most of his life in the Commonwealth. He went to Cathedral High School in Boston, and earned his undergraduate and Masters degrees at Boston College.
He taught for many years at both junior high and high schools in the Boston area, later being named assistant Principal at Norwell High School. He closed his career after serving several years as Principal of Hingham Junior High School.
Family and close friends will gather at the Ashley Funeral Home, 35 Oak Street, Middleborough, on Wednesday, November 17, 2021, from 10:00-11:00 AM, with a funeral service starting at 11:00 AM, followed by a graveside service at the Titicut Parish Cemetery, Plymouth Street, North Middleborough.
For inside services, the family respectfully requests that guests wear masks.
Contributions in Daniel's memory may be made to the Special Olympics Massachusetts, 512 Forest Street, Marlborough, MA 01752.
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