Ralph 'Butch' E. Ryan

Ralph “Butch” E. Ryan, age 68, passed away unexpectedly, but peacefully, at his residence on Thursday, November 6, 2014. Butch was born in Racine on June 11, 1946, son of the late Ralph and Dagny (Nee: Petersen) Ryan.

He was a sprinkler fitter by trade for 30 years, never missing a day of work, retiring in 2001.  He was a member of UAW Local 669.  He was a graduate of St. Catherine’s High School “Class of 1964.” He was a member of St. Lucy’s Catholic Church.  He was a gifted musician as a member of the Racine Kilties Drum and Bugle Corps from 1961-1966 with his father driving the members' bus to Cleveland, Ohio, where they won the National Championship in 1964.  He was a natural artist having drawn many lighthouse paintings, among many other drawings, but the drawing he was proudest of was the original Racine Kilties logo.

He was a longtime member of the American Bowling Congress where he excelled, having bowled many national honor scores with his first 300 game on October 8, 1978, and an 804 series with a 300 game bowled on his son’s birthday on February 15, 1993.  He bowled in many National, State and City bowling tournaments.

He enjoyed his past trips with family and friends every year in July to Cisco Lake Resort in the UP of Michigan, and recent trips with Pam to Door County and Mexico.  He was an avid fan of the Packers, Cubs and Badgers.

Survivors include his sons, Scott (Diane) of Racine, Jason (Tracy) of Pewaukee; two granddaughters, Avery and Peyton Ryan; two step-grandsons, Josh and Jordan Wolfe; brother, Tom (Judy); nephews, Randy, Roddy and Rick Ryan; niece, Susie Klus; brother-in-law, Lance Raichert; dear aunt, Rosie DeKeuster; special loving friend, Pam Lorentsen; canine companion, Max; other relatives, and many dear friends too numerous to mention.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Patricia Raichert.

His funeral services will be held at the funeral home on Saturday, November 15, 2014, at 11 a.m. with Rev. Mark Jones officiating.  Visitation will be at the funeral home on Saturday from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.  Please join the Family for a celebration of Butch’s life at RoJo’s Bar immediately following the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Racine Kilties Drum and Bugle Corps, P.O. Box 085235, Racine, WI 53408, in honor of Butch.

MARESH-MEREDITH & ACKLAM FUNERAL HOME
803 Main St., Racine, WI    (262) 634-7888