Mr Patrick J. Ryan

Litchfield - On Tuesday, March 21st, Patrick Joseph Ryan, loving husband of Diane Ryan, passed away at home following a short illness. Patrick was born on October 3, 1946 in Dundrum, County Tipperary, Ireland.

He emigrated to Connecticut with his parents in 1960. Following graduation from Kennedy High School, Patrick joined the U.S. Air Force serving as an Aircraft Maintenance Specialist from 1966-1970. Patrick later joined the Waterbury Police Department, where he was an officer from 1972-1982. While a police officer, Patrick earned an Associate’s Degree in criminal justice from Mattatuck Community College.

From 1982 until his 2009 retirement Patrick worked with persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities at the Department of Developmental Services. While serving in the Air Force, Patrick met Rose “Diane” Sitek of Buffalo, New York, whom he married on September 28, 1968. Together Patrick and Diane raised two sons, Timothy and Michael. Patrick will be great missed by all who knew him. Despite his humble beginnings, Patrick achieved much in his life, all with the aim to benefit his family. Many recall Patrick’s great generosity to family, friends and strangers alike. Patrick was also noted for his ability to repair cars, tractors and all manner of home appliances. He was also a remarkable driver, whether as a young man drag racing his muscle car at the Niagara Speedway or later navigating a patrol car through Waterbury traffic. Following his retirement, Patrick served as a board member of The Friends of Topsmead State Forest. Patrick’s family have many memories they treasure including waterskiing with Patrick on Lake Zoar and their vacations over the years, especially a 2017 trip to Hawaii. Patrick’s four grandchildren will never forget all that their beloved Pop-Pop did for them as well as all that he inspired them to accomplish.

He is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Diane, his son, Timothy, and Timothy’s wife Sun-Mee, his son, Michael, and Michael’s wife, Jennifer. Patrick is also survived by his four grandchildren: Audrey, Emma, Owen and Elise. Patrick was predeceased by his parents Timothy and Margaret (Meade) Ryan.

Calling hours will be 8:00 AM-10:30 AM, Saturday, April 1st at Lyons Funeral Home, 46 High Street, Thomaston. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00 AM, at St. Thomas Catholic Church, 1 East Main Street, Thomaston. To send notes of sympathy and comfort to Patrick’s family please visit his tribute page at www.lyonsfuneralhome.com

In lieu of flowers, Patrick’s family has suggested donations to e Friends of Topsmead Butterfly Garden (Friends of Topsmead State Forest, PO Box 1081, Litchfield, CT. 06759) or The League of Women Voters Education Fund, (LWVLC, PO Box 899, Litchfield, CT. 06759).