John Clarke Ryan, 79, died on April 20, 2022 at Boston Medical Center, after a long illness.

Born July 23, 1942 in Utica, John is the son of John F. and Margaret (Quinn) Ryan. He was a graduate of Utica Catholic Academy, attended Mount St. Mary College, received a Bachelor of Arts from Marquette University, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and graduated from Arizona State University with a BA in International Business. and language.

John was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Massena and early on was a member of Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Utica.

John was challenged by periodic depression which affected many of his goals in life. He was employed by the New York Insurance Compensation Rating Board as an inspector. He also held various other positions during his career.

John was a kind and gentle man. He was especially close to his sister, Sherry, with whom he lived. They helped each other through life’s ups and downs like good friends. John was proud of his Irish heritage and handled many situations with humor. He was a volunteer aide at a local nursing home in Massena as he read to residents and tried to lift their spirits with his humorous gift of small talk.

John is survived by his cherished sister, Mary Sharon (Sherry) Ryan, Massena; nieces and nephews, Christopher Ryan, Matthew Ryan, Andrew Ryan and Jennifer Ryan and her husband, Dr. Michael Pourfar. He also leaves great-nieces and great-nephews; sisters-in-law, Clare Ryan and Remedios Ryan; cousins, John and Sharon Ryan; and his best friend, Jim Bertlesman. He was predeceased by his beloved brothers, Edward Ryan and William Ryan.

Relatives and friends are invited and may call Friday from 4-6 p.m. at McGrath, Myslinski, Karboski & Nunn Funeral Directors, 470 French Rd., Utica. Funeral services will begin immediately following visitation at 6 p.m. with Sister Maureen Denn, CSJ officiating. Interment will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Whitesboro.

John’s family express their gratitude to Dr. Nimesh Desai who took great care of him at Massena and to the doctors and staff at Boston Medical Center for the care and compassion John showed during his stay. They are also very grateful for the sensitivity shown by his sister Sherry in her final hours, as she was able to be with John virtually when he received the last rites and when he passed away. Pastor Judith VanKennen was also very supportive and accommodating, having accompanied Sharon on her first trip to Boston to see John.

In lieu of flowers, keepsakes in John’s name can be made at Thea Bowman House at www.thebowmanhouse.org. Envelopes will also be available at the funeral home.

Messages of sympathy to www.mmknfd.com