John Joseph Ryan May 17,1931 – May 25, 2020
“Jackie”, “Jack”, “John”, “Mr. Ryan”
Friends, Family and Grammarians…… lend us your time. We come to celebrate Mr. Ryan, not to edit his story. 😉
“Jackie” was born at home to Lucy (Gallagher) and Philip Ryan on May 17, 1931 in Philipsburg, Montana, as his oldest sister Margaret, graduated from high school. Jackie was adored by his sister Margaret; he viewed her as his second “Mom”.
Jackie and his sister Margaret shared a love of horses. His sister would “saddle-up” Duke, settle Jackie in her lap and spend countless hours exploring the grandparents’ acreage. One day, Duke decided not to wait for Margaret and took off like the wind with 2 year old Jackie; the only one in the saddle. The family was distraught, envisioning the worst…….Jackie came back unscathed; sitting upright in the saddle. In the simple words of a young child retelling the event, “Duke stop, go home”……even the horse had the good sense to listen to him;). “Dumpster”, the stick horse, was a safe ride when his sister wasn’t available. He had many horses over the years; “Pinto” was his partner in many of the tales recounted about early years in “P-Burg”. Jackie and Pinto delivered the local newspaper. His mom would call him Philipsburg’s bread ambassador when she sent him out on Pinto to deliver warm loaves of bread and jars of huckleberry jelly to friends and family.
He loved to be outdoors, skiing, ice skating, sledding, scooter riding, roller skating, hunting and fishing. Fish tales started early…..his fishing basket was never empty and very few got away………. Philipsburg, Flint Creek, Georgetown Lake, Rock Creek, Moose Meadows, Pintler Wilderness and the surrounding area were his backyard and playground. “The earth has music for those who listen.” Unknown Jack was born into a musical family; his mom Lucy and sister Margaret taught music lessons. Singing and whistling, while accompanied by Lucy on the piano, were an important part of family life.
Jackie told many wonderful tales about his animals/pets. “Drake” the duck rode on the sled; followed them to school; somehow managed to avoid the “soup pot”; unlike his feathered friends, including “That Damn Rooster”.
Carroll College was the next setting for his stories about his life. Let’s just say confessions and acts of contrition atoned for his antics and adventures.
After graduating from Carroll College with degrees/minors in philosophy, english, latin and chemistry; he went to work as a chemist for the Anaconda Company in Butte. During this time he met Loretta Fay Barker at a social gathering for young Catholics. They were married April 30, 1955. Together they had five children: Peggy Vogt, Phil, Kathleen, Sus and John. The family moved to Townsend in 1961.His moniker changed a bit at this time; Jack became known as John or Mr. Ryan….. in Townsend.
John was employed at BCHS as an educator, athletic director, principal and superintendent. He regaled us with many stories about shenanigans with his partner in crime, Casey Keltz. As young educators, they relentlessly teased Mrs.“Ma” Bucy (latin/english teacher); she held her own with those “rascals”. John hired the brightest and best teachers; he was pleased if they were Carroll graduates; a nod to his alma mater. He was proud of his MBA from “Bobcatville”; it helped him advance his career.
When students were needing to apply more effort, he would encourage them to use a little “elbow grease”; it cost nothing. He had a delightful tale from childhood about using it to fix his scooter. His dad told him he needed to use a little “elbow grease” to get the job done; he marched down to the hardware store; put his money on the counter and asked for a pound of “elbow grease”. Rarely could he finish the story without bursting into laughter; sharing how he discovered the true definition of hard work and persistence.
John worked many jobs, including teaching at the Good Shepherd’s home in Helena and working at the Forest Service. He loved the dedication, camaraderie, humor, shenanigans (Bill!) and “crew” at the Forest Service.
Mr. Ryan influenced the lives of hundreds of students over his many years at BCHS. TO BE prepared in his class, or NOT TO BE in his class. He cared deeply for the students; he was devoted to guiding and helping students prepare for college and LIFE. “We know what we are, but know not what we may be.” William Shakespeare
John was also very active in the Townsend Community: city council; president of Rotary Club; hospital board member; museum board member; president of the parish council; eucharistic minister; church lector.
Living in a small community gave John the opportunity to touch the lives of generations of families and have them touch his life. Walking to school with neighbor kids; LOVING all the children in the neighborhood; guiding students at school; seeing them GROW and LEARN made his GARDEN of MEMORIES full of beautiful stories. John loved to share those stories with all who stopped to visit.
He received some wonderful cards and letters from the Forest Service Gang, Missoula/Townsend Crew, class of 1972 and former students. After reading Patti’s note this winter; he summed up his main job at the Forest Service with a twinkle in his eye followed by his quick wit. “Patti was great! It was my job to herd the handsome boys. It was her job to catch one…..and she did!” (Paul) …… Peals of laughter ensued.
Hearing from former students, and learning about their successes in life brought a smile to his face and JOY to his heart.
Jack was preceded in death by his parents, his older siblings, Margaret, Helen, Rita, Phyllis, Tom and younger brother Jerry, (his side-kick). His wife Loretta and son Phil are in heaven.
Jack is survived by his children: Peggy Vogt (John), Kathleen, Sus, and John (Tina); Grandchildren: Shannon (Mike), Brenna, Seamus (Ashley), Quinn (Ryce), Hannah and Sean; Great grandchildren: Max, Gus, Mason, Maryn, McCall, Jax and Lochlan.
Our family hopes to have a gathering later in the Summer. Our prayer is for everyone to stay safe; be well; knowing there are silver linings/blessings with opportunities to spread kindness, laughter and LOVE…..
“Knowledge is the wing wherewith we fly to heaven.” William Shakespeare
An Olde Irish Wish
May the raindrops fall lightly on your brow
May the soft winds freshen your spirit
May the sunshine brighten your heart
May the burdens of the day rest lightly upon you
And may God enfold you in the mantle of His love.
We are including some special family memories until we are able to safely gather in person (honoring the safety and well-being of the over 65 “CREW”)!
Peggy developed language and verbal skills at a young age. Dad thought it quite hilarious to teach her some “cowboy words”, to Mom’s dismay and Dad’s delight. Mom warned Dad…..and sure enough…. when Dad had a priest friend over to the house, Miss Peggy (9 months) used the words she had been taught….oh my! Dad and Mom loved to travel to see Peggy and partake in as many athletic and cultural activities/events as possible. Peggy brought them to the Olympic trials in Oregon, Broadway plays, baseball games, museums, live music concerts including The House of Blues. Peg sent Dad music in all forms: records, tapes, CD’s and finally….. “Alexa”.
The fiftieth wedding anniversary was filled with the Foster family ( Barbara as the singing raconteur) a wonderful gift. Mom wanted to hear Jack Sautter sing; another gift. Family, friends, church family, neighbors and the Townsend Community shared their LOVE and time.
Church highlights were always how many kids he could get in the surrounding pews to wink or smile at him (Schnur “girls”, Plymale family and many others).
Grandpa running up and down the hallway with Shannon. Grandpa saying, “HOP, HOP”; Shannon replying with, “POP, POP”! Seeing Grandpa at John’s graduation and Shannon shouting, “POP, POP” for all the guests in the gym to hear. LOL! Cheering at Shannon’s cross country meets.
Brenna reminding Grandpa…. not so gently, while fishing….” You know it is CATCH AND RELEASE” ………. Looking in the paper for days to find the perfect dog, Willy, for Grandpa. Cheering at Brenna’s basketball and softball games.
Terry and her friends coming to school for their Mr. Ryan hugs.
Cheerin on Shannon and Siobhan with their academic endeavors and sporting events.
Quinn playing the violin and reminding Grandpa of his musical roots.
The look of utter shock, followed by bellows of laughter……. When Hannah as a 3-year-old asked, “Grandpa do you wear underpants?” Grandpa replied, “Why, yes I do. How about you?” Hannah said, “Sometimes….”. Cheering at Hannah’s volleyball games.
Seamus and Sean being able to meet authentic Montana cowboys, Kelly and Kevin Flynn. So graciously sharing their time, shooting range, and Kevin’s favorite fishing hole. Seamus went on to work in Yellowstone Park, because “Papa” brought him the application, wanting him to have the opportunity to experience the outdoors while applying a little “elbow grease” …….
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
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Sharie Babb says
Sending condolences to his family. R.I.P. Mr. Ryan. Praying for peace for you and your family.
Jerri Woodring Thueson says
So sorry for everyone! He was such a good guy and friend!
Tom Arensmeyer says
I worked with John for many years. He was a dedicated educator. The well-being and success of the students was always his priority. He mentored many young teachers. My condolences to his children.
Teena Leanhart says
Oh, Mr Ryan….
You were such a good friend to me and many others. Every time I would go up to Townsend, I would stop and visit with you for a bit.
You bought me and sat with me for Senior Prom pictures ❤️ Truly stole my heart.
May your soul rest with your family and may you always chuckle about the memories.
Rest in Paridise, my friend.
Gone but Never forgotten ❤️🙏💞
Merla Wilkerson says
So sorry to hear of Mr. Ryan’s passing. Such a wonderful man. Sympathy and prayers to his family.
Donna Francisco says
Peggy – Suzie – Kathleen & John ~
My deepest thoughts and prayers go out to you with the loss of your Dad!! He was such a huge part of my growing up life. You and your family hold a very special place in my heart and both your Mom and Dad will never be forgotten! Hugs to all of you!
Denise Thompson says
He was a true GEM!!! He was strict but fun and cared deeply for the students. I always enjoyed our visits. God bless the family during this time.
Warmly, Vince and Denise Thompson and family
Trudi Downer says
Teacher, Mentor, Friend and Inspiration-Mr. Ryan, you encouraged the best of me in your classroom. You encouraged me to be the best in my own classroom. You were always a friend and inspiration. You will be missed. My thoughts and prayers to the Ryan family.
Dee Ellen Hensley Toy says
RIP Mr. Ryan. You were a good teacher and principle. My thoughts and prayers go out to your family. You smiled at me and made me feel welcome in school.
Dave Rauser says
Mr Ryan was a tough principal but that taught me a lesson in life that I will never forget, Sorry for the family in this tough time, He had a real good life and so many like myself were not as easy as most will always think that it was the values he brought to the table that were carried with us all.
Thank you for all you did Mr. Ryan
Angela & LeAnn Carmody says
RIP Mr. Ryan.
Thoughts & Prayers to all the family.
Angela & LeAnn Carmody
Sharmon Corner says
One of the very best! I had two years of English from John and dropped out of school before finishing my senior year. Twenty years later I got a GED and went to college at Carroll. I was so scared but entered my first year English class and couldn’t believe that I could speak and write so much better than the kids fresh out of high school! You were a great teacher, Mr. Ryan, and a wonderful human being as well! Sending love and hugs to the kids!
shari toney says
Prayers. 🙏💖God bless wade and Shari Toney
Ron cheever says
RIP MR Ryan
Carol Lorz says
You were one of the nicest people I knew. Always friendly and warm. I had your class for 3 years in high school and you were the director of the BCHS theater group. I loved your classes, you always challenged us to be better. I had stage fright, and I still enjoyed the plays I was in because of you and my classmates. My prayers go out to your family..and I hope they find comfort in our collective memories of a good man. Rest in peace, John.
John Poole says
RIP John J Ryan. Educator, Mentor, Example, and so much more. I am the better for being a student.
Go chat with Chaucer and Shakespeare.
Condolences to the family.
Dale Antonich says
One of the best! No doubt there. Thanks John for all you gave to us. He will be missed and his wisdom never matched. What a super person he was. RIP, John may you be by God’s side. We will carry on but you made the world a better place.
Gary Martin says
THE BIG R RIP
Jane Mattson says
RIP Mr. Ryan🙏 Thoughts and prayers for your family.
Diana Berglind says
Mr. Ryan was a great teacher. He always stopped and said hi to me years after attending high school. He will be missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to the families.
Diana Berglind
Leo Levengood says
Prayers for the Family and all of his Loved ones!
Larry & Buffy Woodring says
RIP Mr Ryan. Prayers to the family.
Joanne Slifka says
Mr. Ryan was a great teacher and principal, who cared about each student while at BCHS. After high school, anytime Mr. Ryan saw me, he would take time to visit and we would catch up on what had been happening in each of our lives. I feel blessed to have had him as a principal, teacher, and friend. Hugs, prayers, and condolences to his entire family! God Bless you, Mr. Ryan! 🤗🙏🤗🙏🤗🙏💙💙💙
Tom Tintinger says
Rest in peace, John Ryan. My thoughts and prayers are with your family. Mr Ryan was a tough teacher, but I leaned so much from his classes. Throughout out my life, I looked back remembered what John had taught me and made my life so much better for being in my life.
Jack and Judy Gillespie says
Sending our love to Peggy, Kathleen, Susie and Johnny! You are in our thoughts and prayers! Your Father was not only a good friend but a good man and we will miss him! We had many good times together and our families share many special memories.
Aubra and Lee Lewis says
Thanks for for straightening me out my Sophomore year. You only had to do it once! Thanks for the candy when we would come to your house for Halloween with our kids and the one you always said to give to Lee who was the driver. Thanks for your years of service to Broadwater County High School. One day I heard your voice in Brian’s office when he was superintendent, and I had a full on flashback. So I stopped to say hi. We had a good chuckle. Prayers for this family and much love.
Abe Fandrich says
Rest In Peace Mr. Ryan. Peggy, Kathleen, Susie and John you are in our prayers. John was a tough Principle, a demanding teacher, a mentor and a wonderful friend to many of us that passed through BCHS. The extra effort put forth by Mr. Ryan formed many individuals into the people they are today. John will be missed!
Elzarus Hunsaker (Grandie) says
Mr Ryan was a great teacher and principal.
He helped keep me on a steady path with firm
counselings and sound advice. He always had my respect.
He will be missed by his students and the community.
Mary Jane Becker says
Mr. Ryan was a great teacher. My prayers to the family.
Brian Patrick says
Mr Ryan had a heart of gold. Great teacher and administrator. I’m so glad I had the opportunity to work with him. He ran a tight ship for both staff and students. I have many great memories of my time working at Broadwater County High School with Mr Ryan. My thoughts and prayers are with Peggy, Kathleen, Susie, and John Jr.
Julie (Nichols) Sanders says
So glad I had the opportunity to visit with Mr. Ryan at Touchmark last year with my mom. My funniest memory is when he called me to his office after skipping school. He said “Nichols, you do the crime, you pay the time!” We both laughed as I marched off to detention. (I think he laughed more than I did).
What a legacy John left at BCHS! He will be missed.
Cindy Kirksey Fretheim says
Sincere condolences to Mr. Ryan’s family, and special thoughts for my classmate, Peggy. Mr. Ryan will be long remembered as a dedicated educator. He was tough, but he genuinely cared about each student at BCHS. He was always so warm and friendly whenever I saw him in the years after I graduated. May God be with you and give you peace.
Ron Baze says
I’m sure I spent much more time in his office than he liked, but every time he would patiently explain the teacher’s reasoning, the rule I may have broken and what my appearance/actions looked like to the adults around me. Total respect to someone who could have easily been an enemy to a 15-16 year old kid, but was instead a trusted mentor. Rest in peace sir. Condolences to family and friends alike.
Susan Sautter Ritter says
Prayers and thoughts to Peggy, Kathleen, Susie & Johnny. Your father was a strong leader at BCHS. He cared for each student. Great values & dedication affected so many. I really enjoyed visiting with John at his house with mom. You’re in my thoughts & prayers. God Bless!
Chuck Harvey says
What a privilege to have worked for him and with him for many years. Taught everyone a lot of important lessons. Lots of important talks early in the morning with him and Mr. Arensmeyer. REST IN PEACE. My condolences to Peggy, Kathleen, Susie, and John.
Suzanne Welch Crawford says
Mr. Ryan was the best grammarian I ever knew- an art sadly lacking in today’s educational circles. He was firm, yet fair and friendly, and a considerate listener as an administrator. He seemed to have a knack for inspiring students to become the best version of themselves. The world lost ones of the good ones. I hope Peggy, Kathleen, my wonderful college friend Susie, and Johnny have some wonderful memories to help ease his passing
Kerry Pottruff says
Mr. Ryan, the true definition of the tough guy exterior, with a soft heart of gold. Rest In Peace Mr. Ryan, & your family can take comfort in knowing of the hundreds of BCHS Bulldogs that you helped over your lifetime of teaching, especially for being the timer for the 1970 Doggs vs Three Forks Wolves football game. (Ask a member of the 70 District Championship Team) Thank you Mr. Ryan for a lifetime of influence.
Monte & Mary Ellen Schnur says
Teacher, friend, neighbor–a big part of the fabric of our lives. Our prayers for his respose, and prayers for Peggy, Kathleen, Susie, and Johnny. Your dad was proud of you all.
Greg Pottruff says
Like my brother Kerry says tough exterior but heart of gold.
So many good memories. One of my first highschool games on the team bus…there he was sitting right at the front and you had to slip by him when you got on the bus.. Bad enough to deal with him during the day with Poe, Hemming way (Hamlet’s soliloquy I still can’t get out of my head ) and now on the team bus ! It wasn’t long before I wanted to be riding up at the front with him when I understood he was actually funny and joking with each of us at times . A person unlike the ridgid figure He projected in school.
Dave Scott says
John along with Coach Casey Keltz we’re primary factors in me obtaining a scholarship to Western. Both her great mentors and friends. His rough and exacting manner may have scared some, but I realized early on he was doing it to build character and work ethic in us all. I regret not visiting with him last time I was in town. May you Rest In Peace and I thank you for your help and guidance. God Bless you!
Gary Wogamon says
My sincere condolences go out to Peggy, Kathleen, Suzie, John. Your Dad will always have a special place in my heart. He was a kind soul with a heart of gold and always made me feel welcome whenever I came over to your house while I was growing up and always greeted me with a smile every time I saw him. I will keep you in my prayers during this difficult time.
Barry Clark says
RIP Mr. Ryan. You were a fair educator and an even better neighbor. You will be missed!
Lee Lau Connolly says
SINCERE SYMPATHY TO MR RYAN”S FAMILY. MAY GOD BLESS AND GUIDE YOU ALL THROUGH THIS DIFFICULT TIME. YOUR DAD WAS A GREAT TEACHER AND FRIEND. LEE LAU CONNOLLY
Laurie Scoffield Baker says
Thoughts and prayers with his family! Fond memories of him as principal.
Susan Hunter says
He was a fine educator and will be missed.. tough,but fair, a gentle giant that cared deeply about his students. His years of service to BCHS will not be forgotten. Thoughts and prayers to his family.
Suzie Foster Ames says
I send my heartfelt love and prayers to Peggy, Kathleen, Susie and John. I loved your dad and respected him to the moon. He taught us all so much about life, and yes, he was Butte tough, but he loved every one of us and helped prepare us for life. I thought the world of him and always will.
“But how do you thank someone who has taken you from crayons to perfume?…A friend who taught me right from wrong, and weak from strong that’s a lot to learn……To Sir, with love.”
Sherry and Ward Scoffield says
John was always a friend to us. We respected him. Never had him as a teacher ( we’re too old) but I worked in the school system with him. Definitely a fine person who did a lot for Townsend schools. A very devoted father and husband to Loretta. Our condolences to his family.
Teresa Graham says
John Ryan, I lived in mortal fear of going into your classroom unprepared , so I worked harder in the two years I was in your class than I did in all my other classes combined. I am a better person because of what I learned from you. I believe every person who entered your classroom were at the very least better when their time with you was complete. Thank you for always taking time to ask about my life whenever I saw you. When you asked how I was doing, you really cared! RIP dear friend you will.be missed. Love and prayers to all the Ryan children, nothing ever prepares us for the loss of a beloved parent.
Gay Ann Masolo says
God bless you in the loss of your Dad. I enjoyed my visits with him at Touchmark and teaching with him in Townsend. We both served on the church council together and sometimes disagreed. Surprise with two Irish people not backing down but came to agreements by listening to each other. My prayers for you.
Stephani Page says
I will miss you, Mr. Ryan. Thanks for being a great friend and neighbor to me and my family. My thoughts and prayers are with Johnny, Susie, Kathleen, and Peggy.
VIckie Rauser says
Peggy, Kathleen, Susie, & John,
My condolences, sympathy, love and prayers to you all. I have deep respect and admiration for your dad and will cherish the memories I have of him both in and out of school.
Steven Cook says
I remember Mr. Ryan even though I haven’t seen him since the 80’s. He was the “best” of Townsend. He was tough but everyone of his students knew that he cared deeply for them. You are missed Mr. Ryan.
Joe Foster ('71) says
The memories flood in. Mr. Ryan was certainly the most impactful teacher I ever had . . the lessons extending well past English; though I do believe he was the greatest English educator of all time. My family grew up with the Ryans – Peggy, Phil, Kathleen, Susie and Johnnie were constant and special playmates and friends (Mrs. Ryan told us to include young Johnnie – so we did!). John Ryan – to most of us, Mr. Ryan – was a very fine man and educator, and dear friend of my parents, as was Loretta. He made a real difference in all our lives . . which, really, is the kind of legacy we all would hope for. And now he with his dear Loretta and Phil . . . all’s good.
Chris H Christensen says
I want John’s grandchildren to know that they had a very unusual, strict, honest and good man for a grandfather. John and I didn’t meet eye to eye all of the time but I still had respect for him and his decisions. When John decided that you could be a friend, then you were a friend. We got along better and better each year that we worked together. He was always willing to go out of his way to talk to me after he retired. We had a lot in common, he worked for the Townsend School district, as I did. He loved the out of doors and fishing, as I do. He worked for the forest service, as I did. He had a wonderful family that he loved very much, as I do. We both grew up close to the mountains and all that they had to offer for young boys. And we both loved to teach and mentor the youth. I can hardly wait to see John again and share memories of all these things that we have both come to love. There stands a “Good Man”.
Kelsey Samel (Nugent) says
Mr. Ryan was a wonderful man. Those of us who knew him are truly blessed. Prayers to your family.
Randy Wambolt says
Thank You Mr Ryan for making me NOT like school; RIP
Bill & Mary Duede says
Sincere condolences to Susie, Johnny, Kathleen and Peggy along with his grandchildren and greats.
John knew my Dad and Uncle at Carroll College who most likely joined him in the aforementioned adventures, thus I could hold a little bit over him as my administrator at Townsend Schools. 🙂
He showed a heart of gold when it really counted and helped influence a community of learners for generations. RIP John.
I got to know Ryan in a different light, sure he was my teacher/principal but he was also my dispatcher!! JR and I work with the US Forest Service for many years. I think JR and Arnsie were thrown into the mold to keep a bunch of young bucks in line and give us structure!!! Awesome times, fond memories!!! The man gave me structure when I need it! Love ya man!!
Darlene and Jim Beck says
Our condolences to John’s family. He was a mentor to me as a first year teacher. I am thankful for his guidance and honesty. He was an exemplary educator, and we were so fortunate to have his leadership!
Gerald Kitto says
My sincere condolences to the family of a special human being! I was sure I’d never be able to follow my dream of being a veterinarian when I entered Mr Ryan’s class because he scared the heck out of me. But in the long run I know I achieved my dream because of his special strict influence!! I value his sincere mentorship to this day. God bless him!!!
Jerry Kitto. 67
Hiedi and John Vogele and family says
Our sincere condolences to the family of Mr. Ryan. We never met, as far as I know, but I have really enjoyed reading the many wonderful memories others have shared here. We must have moved to Townsend after he retired.
Sharon Rains Potenza says
I even liked diagraming sentences with this fine teacher. You always knew this was a teacher who wanted you to succeed. Loved reading this fine obituary. What a guy!
Cynthia Rauser Cantu says
To the Ryan family; I am so sorry about your dad I thought the world of him. He always was on my butt for missing every Tuesday because I took Cows to Butte for my dad .We always had a fight about that. I liked that man a lot .So sorry for your loss