Thomas “Tom” Francis Ryan, age 81 of Spring Lake, passed away on Wednesday, February 3, 2021 at a local care facility. He was born to Thomas and Margaret (Shanley) Ryan on January 10, 1940 in Bronx, New York. Tom married Kathryn Blendermann on Sept. 3, 1960 in the Bronx. She preceded him in death on December 1, 1990 after 30 years of marriage.
Upon graduation from high school, Tom proudly served his country in the US Army from 1959 to 1962. Tom then went to college and obtained his Associates degree, and spent 40 years working as a buyer for General Motors. After retiring from General Motors, he then worked for American Axle for 10 years.
Tom was an avid history buff and was a substitute teacher at a local community college, teaching history for many years. He also enjoyed reading and watching baseball games.
Tom will be loving remembered by his six daughters, Deborah (Thomas) Biscup of Sterling Heights, MI, Annette (Daniel) Farrell of Middletown, NY, Kathryn (Charles) Loewe of Clawson, MI, Melissa (Eric) Brenberger of Grand Haven, MI, Dorothy (Daniel) Masters of Warren, MI, and Kimberly (Daniel) Graft of Tecumseh, MI; 19 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his six siblings; step-sons, Doug and Ryan Kendrick; daughter-in-law, Melissa Ryan; and his long-time companion, Cathie Stall.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Kathryn; son, Thomas M. Ryan; and two siblings.
A Visitation for Tom will be held on Sunday, February 7, 2021 from 1 to 3 p.m. at Klaassen Family Funeral Home. Masks and Social Distancing will be required. Military Honors will be presented at 3:00 pm by the American Legion, Charles A. Conklin Post #28.
Memorial Contributions in memory of Tom may be made to the Alzheimer's Association.
To view Tom's Military Honors, which were provided by the American Legion, please visit: https://youtu.be/zmXLqS4RfW8
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