Lieutenant Colonel Michael Thomas Ryan US Army was born on April 10, 1937 in Denver CO to Mr. Francis & Mrs. Dorothy Burch Ryan of Burbank CA. Michael passed away peacefully on December 18th 2023 in Glendale CA.

Michael Ryan graduated from Burbank High School in 1955 and then from the United States Military Academy West Point in 1960. He graduated in the top 25 percent of his class and was the top rifle marksman of his class.

An incredibly successful Army officer,  Michael’s 24 years of service after West Point began with the 82nd Airborne Division where he earned his Senior Parachutist Badge and Jump Master designation and the Bronze Star Medal. Additional awards he earned include two Meritorious Service Medals, Joint Service Commendation Medal, two Army Commendation Medals, National Defense Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, two Overseas Service Ribbons, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, and the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm Medal. His overseas assignments included the countries of Vietnam, Thailand, Tunisia (North Africa), and Korea. His final assignment with the Army was as the Assistant Project Manager for the M60 Tank program in Warren, MI.

An avid fly fisherman, Michael loved to spend his days chasing trout and passing his fly rod and fly tying skills on to his sons.

Michael is survived by his sister Patty Ryan French, his former wife Betty J. Ryan, his sons Kevin M. Ryan and Colonel William T. Ryan USMC. He also leaves behind five Grandchildren: Erik, Michael, Jack, Steven, Kelli, and a Great Grandchild Wrenley.

His family will be announcing a Celebration of Life Service in his honor shortly.

He will be greatly missed.

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