Dennis Daniel Irvin Ryan's Obituary
Dennis Daniel Irvin Ryan 73, of Waianae, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 29, 2019 at Pu’uwai’o Makaha with his loving wife of 53 years, Carol Jean Koana (Maielua) Ryan by his side. Dennis was born February 22,1945 to Bernard and Alice Ryan in St. Louis, MO. He was the youngest of 9 children. He married the love of his life, Carol Jean Koana (Maielua) on July 20, 1965.
Dennis graduated from Mercy Parish High School in 1963, attended Columbia College and worked in the US Navy Reserves Seabees Battalion for 30 years. As a civilian, he also worked as a plumber and planner/estimator where he retired as a distinguished Engineer from the US Army Corp of Engineers from the Los Angeles District. During his retirement, he enjoyed helping people as a real estate agent for Coldwell Banker Real Estate.
His faith was dedicated to the Catholic Church; a proud parishioner of Sacred Heart Church of Waianae since 1974. His love for God led him to his involvement with the World Wide Marriage Encounter and the Cursillo Movement of the Asian-Pacific which spanned over 30 years. He loved watching old movies as well as singing and listening to Irish songs and anything by Israel Kamakawiwo’ole. More than anything though, he truly enjoyed having his whole family surrounding him. There was never a dull moment at the Ryan house! Dennis also enjoyed being touted as the loudest and staunchest supporter of the Damien High School Football team. Dennis was also recognized as being one of Hawaii’s top Blood Bank Donors. These testaments reflected the true measurement of a man whose heart was just as big as he was.
He is survived by his loving wife Carol, his sons, Daniel, and Enrique “Rico” (Kim) Ryan, daughter Mercedes “Mercy” (Marion) Laquihon, thirteen grandchildren ; and sixteen great-grandchildren. Dennis’ son, Dennis Daniel Kalani Ryan preceded him in death.
Services will be held at Sacred Heart Church of Waianae on Wednesday, February 27, 2019 with visitations to begin at 9:00 am. Burial will follow at Valley of the Temples at 2:00 pm.
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