william-ryan—obituary-photo
In Loving Memory of

William (Bill) Laughlin Ryan

1938 - 2021

Obituary of William (Bill) Laughlin Ryan

William (Bill) Laughlin Ryan

Passed away peacefully and surrounded by family in the residence of MaryAnn and Jim on April 24, 2021 at the age of 82. Bill is reunited with the love of his life, Vivian (2021) who he was happily married to for 61 years. Loving Dad to Michael, MaryAnn (Jim), Jason (Blair and her daughter Harper), as well as Jay Lanthier who was like a son to him. He was one of six brothers and seven sisters. He is survived by brothers Patrick and John and sisters Barbara (Michael), Elaine (Jan) and Annette (Fred). He was predeceased by brothers Darcy (Betty), Frank (Alice), James (Lorna). Also predeceased by his sisters Caroline (Charles McNeil), Mary (Dennis Milner), June (James McNeil), and SR Marcella (Sisters of Charity). Bill will be greatly missed by his friends and family and also missed by his grandpup Mugsy.

Bill was a member of a large Irish Canadian family from Glace Bay, Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia. He left Glace Bay as a teenager and enlisted in the Canadian Armed Forces. Bill served in Germany during the Cold War era 1957-1959, along with other NATO forces. He served with distinction during this period and was awarded the Special Service Medal. Bill participated and coached baseball and hockey in Port Colborne where he resided for most of his life. He also continued his passion for sports watching Baseball, Hockey and the NFL. Bill was known as the “Armchair Manager” for the Blue Jays. Bill was a kind, giving, generous, selfless, and supportive father. The love for his children and family was never ending.

The family would like to thank Dr. Mayer and the staff of the Mayer Institute in Hamilton for their genuine care and compassion. A special thank you to Candy Bureau for helping to love and support Bill and his family when they needed it most.

Essentials Cremation and Burial Services (905-354-2133) has been entrusted with arrangements. In lieu of donations, Bill and his family would encourage you to “treat yourself” and enjoy a good meal or spend the money to create new memories with loved ones. Online condolences may be shared to Bill’s tribute page at EssentialsNiagara.com.


His Journey’s Just Begun

Don’t think of him as gone away –
his journey’s just begun,
life holds so many facets –
this earth is only one.
Just think of him as resting
from the sorrows and the tears
in a place of warmth and comfort
where there are no days and years.
Think how he must be wishing
that we could know today
how nothing but our sadness
can really pass away.
And think of him as living
in the hearts of those he touched…
for nothing loved is ever lost –
and he was loved so much.

- E. Brenneman
In honour of my father, love your daughter, MaryAnn

Service Information

There are no upcoming public services scheduled or the service has occurred in the past.

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Sylvia Orthwein
2 years ago

Dear Maryann, Jason, Michael and family,

Our deepest sympathies for you and your family. I am very sorry to hear that Uncle Billy passed away. I have fond memories of him. He was such a loving and kind man.

Thinking of you, and love to you all,

Sylvia, Camilo, Darcy and Juliet

Lynda Lemp
2 years ago

Maryann my heart is breaking for you & your family. Sometimes you just want to close your eyes and say this can’t be true ,tell me it’s a dream, but then you open your eyes and your heart and realize maybe Mom’s heart was calling for Dad’s heart so they can be together forever . They will watch over you all from the heavens above as their love shines down on you all. Sending you all lots of love & hugs xo Lynda & Doug

Eva Cugini & Family
2 years ago

We are so sorry for your families loss Maryann. We am thinking of you and we know that you did everything you could for him. God Bless you and your family. Love Eva, Lino, Maddy & Cassy Cugini xoxox

John & shannon richard
2 years ago

What an incredible write up. What an incredible life he had. Very sorry to hear. Our condolences.
Richard family

Rosa Agro Arcaro
2 years ago

Sincere condolences to you all during this difficult time. May Bill Rest In Peace in companion with Vivian. Your devotion and care are precious blessings forever in your hearts.
Sending hugs and prayers.
Agro family. XO🙏

Candy Bureau
2 years ago

If All I could give is of myself, than I have done this with Love. It was an honor. To give my Love and support to You firstly Bill in your time of need. Im not sure how we were or are connected, but Im glad I got to share some very special moments with You and Maryann, a wink, a smile, just pure love, an everlasting Memory.
To You Maryann and Jim, Jason, and Blair, and Michael, I am glad I was blessed to be a part of sharing Love with Your family in Your time of need. Family is so very important, let that be what carries You through this time.
Much Love to You and your extended family.

Rosa Chatland
2 years ago

Our deepest condolences to you and your family. We loved Bill and Vivian so much, now they are together forever looking down on us. Xoxo all our love. The Chatland family

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In lieu of donations, Bill and his family would encourage you to “treat yourself” and enjoy a good meal or spend the money to create new memories with loved ones.

Note:  If you make a donation, please notify the family by posting a condolence.

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