Michael T. Ryan, Sr.

Michael Thomas Ryan, Sr., of Laytonsville, MD, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, June 1, 2024 at the age of 72 while doing what he loved, riding his bike on the open roads of Montgomery County.

Michael was born in Manhattan, NY, on December 29, 1951 to the late Patricia and Thomas Ryan. The oldest of four children, Michael was only 13 when his father passed away and 14 when his mother passed away. He was then raised by his aunt and uncle, the late Helen and Edward Ryan of Metuchen, NJ, and lived with his dear cousins who became like siblings. He went to St. Joseph’s High School in Metuchen. 

Mike received his bachelor’s degree from Mount St. Mary’s University in Emmitsburg, MD in 1973. He joined the Montgomery County Police Department in 1975 where he proudly served for 37 years before retiring in 2012. Mike spent the first part of his career working in the Wheaton District before becoming one of the first officers assigned to the newly created Germantown District. He worked in decentralized SWAT and finished his career in School Safety. At one point he was chosen as Officer of the Year and enjoyed an assignment in D.A.R.E. as well. After retiring, Mike enjoyed working as a driving instructor with I Drive Smart.

Over the years Mike collected countless lifelong friends. He recently called an old high school friend who he hadn’t seen in many years and told him, “You’re on my bucket list. I’m flying out to Minnesota to see you.”

Mike is survived by his three children, Michael Ryan, Jr., Bobby Ryan, and Christine Ryan (Aryan); three grandchildren, Harper Ryan, Ryan Shah Saleh, and Clayton Saleh; siblings Kathy Ryan Bosaw (John), Maureen Ryan Pancza, and Kevin Ryan; former spouse Lana Ryan, the mother of Mike's children and his very good friend; his long-time girlfriend, Helen Pagano; close cousins, Colleen Ryan, Ed Ryan (Marguerite), Tom Ryan (Suzanne), and Bill Ryan; and many nieces and nephews who all have “Uncle Mike” stories.

Mike was the rock of his family and the most loving and devoted father anyone could ever ask for. More than anything in life, he enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren by taking walks with them, teaching them how to play catch/sports and sharing his wisdom about life. Mike will be missed by everyone, but most especially by his loving family.

Funeral services with Montgomery County Police honors will be held on Monday, June 10th at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Damascus, MD. The viewing will be held from 10 a.m to 11 a.m. followed by the funeral service at 11 a.m.

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