Obituary of Francis Joseph Ryan

Francis Joseph Ryan of Corner Brook, passed away peacefully on August 14, 2024 in Corner Brook, surrounded by his loving family. He was born in 1933 in Norris’s Point, NL to Marguerite and James Ryan.  When he was 8, the family embarked on a journey to relocate to Corner Brook, traveling via dogsled. 

Frank was a passionate sports enthusiast, enjoying hockey, baseball, golf, horseshoes, darts, and more. He proudly represented the West Side Monarchs in hockey and baseball, earning accolades as an all-star pitcher for the Barons, which led to his induction into the Newfoundland Baseball Hall of Fame. His prowess in horseshoes even led him to be recruited as a ringer for the Grenfell College PHD team, where he was awarded an honorary PHD. 

Beyond sports, Frank had a deep love for music, he was often found singing tunes wherever he went. He was affectionately known as "two-line Frank" for his ability to recall two lines from every song, music was an integral part of his life. 

In 1959, Frank married the love of his life, Sylvia Fudge, whom he spotted across a crowded room. He knew instantly she was the one he wanted to marry. Together, they raised two children, Susan Sommerville (Hugh) and Michael (Della) Ryan. Later on he delighted in the joys of grandchildren Stacie (Andrew) Kloot and Becca Ryan, as well as his great-grandson, Ryan Kloot. 

Frank is also survived by his step-grandchildren, Kendra (Andrew) Sommerville and Mike Sommerville. He, maintained a positive outlook on life and always finding humor in any situation. He and Sylvia shared many fond memories of their travels together. 

Frank leaves behind his wife Sylvia, who brought him years of companionship and kept him healthy through their journey together. The family would like to give special thanks to Dr. Waghmare, and the wonderful staff of Palliative care at Western Memorial Regional Hospital for the care Francis received during his stay. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to a sports association or a charity close to your heart. To honor Frank's love for music, raise a glass and sing a song in his memory.