Mary Ryan

Mary Ellen Ryan was born September 7, 1928, in Minneapolis, MN, and died June 11, 2013, in Billings, MT. She was preceded in death by parents Thomas J. Ryan, Sr, and Ella M. (Wyman) Ryan. She is survived by brother, Thomas J. Ryan, Jr., Farmers Branch, TX; nieces, nephew and spouses, Anne (Jack) Gauer, Billings, MT; Kathy (Dan) Sullivan and Jim Ryan, Omaha, NE; Julie (Rob) Ryan-Silva, Silver Spring, MD; 8 great nieces and nephews, Danny, Eileen, John and Bobby Sullivan; Jon and Shannon Gauer; and Isabel and Bobby Ryan-Silva. Mary grew up in Minneapolis, attended Southwest High School, earned a Bachelor's degree in home economics from the College of St Catherine in St. Paul, MN, and a Master's degree in economics from the University of Minnesota in St. Paul. She worked at Pillsbury and did research in agricultural economics at the University of Minnesota and at the University of Montana in Bozeman. Mary retired to southern California and then split her time between California and Red Lodge, MT. She loved to travel and loved the outdoors. She especially enjoyed snow skiing, camping, hiking and the camaraderie of sharing those activities with friends. She took extended trips to visit family and friends around the country, and planned special trips with great nieces and nephews to share with them her joy of traveling. When her health prevented her from traveling, Mary became interested in NFL football and old movies and enjoyed Chinese food and chocolate. Cremation will take place and Mary's ashes will be buried in Resurrection Cemetery in Minneapolis. A family memorial service will take place July 20, 2013 in Minneapolis. Arrangements are in the care of Dahl Funeral Chapel and memories may be shared with the family at www.dahlfuneralchapel.com A gathering of friends will take place Monday, June 17 from 3-4 p.m. in the Activity Room at SweetWater Retirement Community, 3140 SweetWater Dr. off 32nd St. W.