Michael Patrick Ryan

We are deeply saddened to announce the unexpected passing of Michael Patrick Ryan, age 66, on August 3, 2021. He was a beloved son, father, brother, grandpa, uncle, cousin and friend. Michael was born on August 15, 1954 in Sacramento, California to Jim and Virginia Ryan. He was the firstborn of 9 children, the leader of the pack, our music man, always available to lend a helping hand and the best big brother ever. Michael learned to play baseball as a young boy in Leesburg. He was a pitcher for his Little League team, a lefty who threw a mean, nasty knuckle ball. He pitched a No-Hitter game, a feat accomplished by very few. He loved hunting with his dad and brothers, experiencing many frigid, early mornings sitting in deer stands/fields in Florida and the Plains of West Texas. There's plenty of family hunting stories that will be passed on for generations. He was an avid golfer, a left-handed player who taught himself to play right-handed due to the lack of left-handed clubs. One of his fondest golf memories was traveling the country playing championship courses with his golf buddies. Michael loved the art of gardening, grilling steaks and burgers and he loved his Florida Gators. He was proud of his Irish heritage. You could see it in his sparkling blue eyes, mischievous grin, witty sense of humor and cleft chin that exemplified his Irish spirit. He was a gifted visionary, a self-made respected businessman. Michael created Ryan Construction while living in Texas. He achieved great success working for Centex Rooney, designing and building resort hotels at Disney World: Animal Kingdom (he and his team visited numerous zoos across the country researching and studying animal natural environment and conservation), Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Tower of Terror and the Coronado Springs Resort. In addition, he was Sr. Vice President of Balfour Beatty Commercial Construction Division building maximum security prisons. A talented musician and born performer, he learned to play guitar at a young age. He serenaded his siblings with his original tunes and some of his favorites like "Wild Horses" and "Black Magic Woman". His faithful acoustic guitar was always right by his side. Michael lived life to the fullest. His love and passion for his family exceeds all his successes. He is survived by his sons, Jeff and Mike Jr., his grandchildren, Mathew, Eli, Liam, Brooklynn, Grayson and Gabby, and his siblings, Patti, Kelly, Kathy, Jim, Joe, Katie and Kerri. He is predeceased by his mother, Virginia Ryan, father, Jim Ryan and brother, John Ryan. The viewing visitation and funeral will be held at Beyers Funeral Home, 1123 W. Main Street, Leesburg, Florida 34748. (Mask wearing is requested). Viewing visitation is scheduled for Wednesday, August 11th from 5pm to 7pm. The funeral service will be held on Thursday, August 12th at 11am. Interment will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens Cemetery, 1901 County Road 25A, Leesburg, Florida, 34748. In lieu of flowers, donations in Michael's memory may be made to Lake Cares Food Pantry. You may donate online at https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/WebLink.aspx?name=E207448&id=30 , call them at 352-383-0100, or send a donation by mail to Lake Cares Food Pantry - 2001 West Old Highway 441, Suite #1 - Mount Dora, Florida 32757. Michael was a kind and gentle soul. He loved the Lord, was patient, and a man of courage and grace. He was a true southern gentleman.

Michael Patrick Ryan

August 15, 1954 - August 3, 2021