Martin Ryan

Martin F. Ryan, 85, of Viola, Illinois died Wednesday, May 18, 2022 at home.

Education was important to Marty… his grandkids graduate from college this weekend and he would not want them to miss graduation.  Therefore, services are being held later in the week.  Visitation is Wednesday, May 25th from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Dennison Funeral Home, Viola.  Funeral services are 10:00 a.m. Thursday, May 26 at Dennison Funeral Home, Viola.  Burial will be in Viola Cemetery.  The family request no flowers and memorials be left for the Martin F. Ryan Ag Scholarship Fund.

Marty was born November 25, 1936 in Aledo, Illinois a son of Francis James and Mary Geraldine Rowley Ryan.  He graduated from Aledo High School.  On August 4, 1956 he married Paula Toellen, together they had six children, they later divorced.  On September 12, 2016 he married Tamara Tary Noyd, she passed away September 23, 2017.  He was a life-long crop and livestock farmer, and owner/operator of Ryan Farms.  At age 19, he became a 4th degree Knight with Monmouth Knights of Columbus.  He and the Nelsons co-founded County Kids 4-H Club.  He enjoyed horse racing and NASCAR.

Those left to cherish his memory are his children:  Theresa (Tim) Anderson, Jim (Julie) Ryan, Dave (Beth) Ryan, Carrie Jo (Chuck) Adams, Tom (Marti) Ryan, and Marcy (Mo) Hyder; 18 grandchildren; 32 great grandchildren with 2 more lovingly expected; sister:  Kathy Ryan; sister-in-law:  Patty Ryan; special friends:  Dave & Judy Trimble, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, 2 grandchildren, siblings:  Jim Ryan and Mary Ellen Volentine, and wife:  Tammy.

Online condolences may be left at www.dennisonfuneralhome.com.