STATESVILLE, NC—Edward “Ted” Joseph Ryan, 78, of Mooresville, NC, formerly of New Lebanon, died Saturday, May 15, at the Gordon Hospice Center.
He was born April 11, 1932, in Providence, RI, the son of the late Edward J. and Mabel Carrier Ryan.
He faithfully, and honorably, served his country in the National Guard, as a Marine Veteran of the Korean War and as part of the Marine Reserves until 1959.
He enjoyed a successful career at Firestone Tire & Rubber Company, where he retired after 25 years of service, and was proud that he “never missed his quota.” After leaving Firestone he decided to take to the open road and drove an 18-wheeler until 2001.
Mr. Ryan had many interests, but stock car racing was his passion. It culminated in his introduction into the New York Stock Car Association Hall of Fame in 1989, after serving as the head starter at Lebanon Valley Speedway for many years.
He was active in his community and was a member of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, the Knights of Columbus, the New Lebanon Lions Club, the American Legion and the Floyd Carlton Post 1236, where he served as commander numerous times.
Mr. Ryan leaves his wife, Dorothy Young Ryan, of Mooresville, NC, the couple would have celebrated their 54th wedding anniversary May 25.
He also leaves eight children, Patrick Ryan and wife, Anne, of Denver, NC, Jane Ryan and the late Peter Harty of Huntersville, NC, Susan Ryan and Ron Rickert of Old Chatham, Colleen Thurston and husband, Charles, of Denver, NC, Shirley Van Wormer of Lanesboro, Mass., Michael Van Wormer of Johnstown, Nicholas Van Wormer of Gloversville, and Eric VanWormer of Albany; six grandchildren, Alannah Farnham and husband, Ed, Chadd Ryan and wife, Stacy, Jennifer Ryan, Sean Ryan, Kenneth Ryan and Charles “Ryan” Thurston; three great-grandchildren, Austryn Ryan, Riley and Cameron Lynch; and many cousins, nieces, nephews and dear friends.
He was predeceased by his nephew, Edward VanWormer.
Friends may call at the Hall & Higgins Funeral Home in Stephentown, Friday July 9, from 4 to 7 p.m. A prayer service will follow officiated by Rev. John Close. There will be a private burial at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery in Schuylerville.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Gordon Hospice Center, 2347 Simonton Road, Statesville, NC 28625.
