Philip Joseph Ryan
Philip Joseph Ryan, 54, passed away
Saturday, Oct. 8, 2011 at St. Patrick Hospital in Missoula after a
short but courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by his loving
family.
Born in Butte on May 12, 1957 to John
and Loretta Ryan, Phil was raised in Townsend along with his three
sisters Peggy (John) Vogt of Los Angeles, Kathleen Ryan of
Kalispell, Susie Ryan of Kalispell, and brother John (Tina) Ryan of
Seattle. After High School graduation in 1975 he attended Carroll
College in Helena on a football scholarship.
For 10 years Phil enjoyed his time as a
logger in the Flathead area of Montana while working for Canyon
Logging. He later continued his education at the University of
Montana where he received a degree in athletic training. In 1990 he
found his niche as a strength, and offensive and defensive line
coach for the University of Montana Grizzlies.
It was here that his influence reached
many members of the Grizzly Family and will continue to do so for
years to come. Phil had an innate ability to help people. His
healing hands touched many people who will be forever grateful.
Phil loved the outdoors to say the
least and if he was not going for a “little sashay” to the top of
Mount Sentinel every morning, he could be found in the woods
calling in the year’s first elk, on the closest river “catchin’a
fish,” or pursuing his true passion of mentoring athletes.
Phil’s was most proud of his four
amazing daughters. It gave him such great joy to see Shannon and
Brenna grow up and have beautiful families of their own. Watching
Quinn and Hannah grow and mature into “stunning” young ladies
warmed his heart and soul.
Phil is survived by his parents,
siblings, wife, Loren and their daughters Quinn and Hannah Ryan of
Missoula. He is also survived by daughters, Shannon (Mike) Marceau
of Seattle, Brenna (Jamie) Livingston of Bozeman; grandchildren,
Max and Gus Marceau and Mason, Maryn, and McCall Livingston.
The family would like to thank St.
Patrick Hospital for the wonderful care given to Phil during his
six week stay. Special thanks to Dr. Lakatua, Dr. Beatty, all the
hospitalists, nurses and nurses aides (Tessie, you are
amazing).
Upon Phil’s request, an official
funeral will not be held. For those who can attend, a benefit to
celebrate Phil’s life will be held on Nov. 3 at 6 p.m. at the Press
Box in Missoula. All proceeds from this event will go to an
educational trust for Quinn and Hannah. In lieu of flowers,
donations may be made to the Quinn and Hannah Ryan Educational
Account at First Interstate Bank. Garden City Funeral Home is
assisting with arrangements.