A Fort Edward Life,
On January 5th, 2014, Fort Edward lost one of its sons. Edward J. Ryan, a lifelong resident of Fort Edward passed away peacefully with the embrace of his loving family. Ed was born on June 21st, 1936 to Edward and Margaret (McCormick) Ryan. Ed was predeceased by his parents and three siblings, Thomas Ryan, Patricia Ann Ryan, and James Ryan. Growing up Ed was most well-known for his athleticism and record-setting ability in high school sports, and was most notably recognized as an All-American athlete in 1954. In 1959, Ed served his country in the 285th Military Police Company and spent two years of active duty stationed in Karlsruhe, Germany. In 1961 Ed married Patricia Mae (Cutler) and spent his remaining years dedicated to civic duties and family. As a longtime resident of the Fort Edward community, Ed served on the local police and volunteer fire departments, chaired several community outreach programs, and served as the Village of Fort Edward Mayor for 16 years (1989 – 2005). Ed was a 42-year career employee at the General Electric Plant in Fort Edward where he also served as President of the UE Local 332 union for many years.
Of greatest remembrance will be Ed’s love of sports, his humorous ways, giving heart, and devotion to his family and friends. He was a gentle, loving husband, father, and friend to many. Ed thoroughly enjoyed golf, food, gatherings, and conversation and took great pleasure in all his passions since his retirement in 1997. His memory will be treasured in all the hearts he touched throughout his 77 years.
“Big” Ed aka “Poppie” leaves behind, along with lifelong friends and numerous extended family members; the (Warren) & Carolyn Cutler Family, the John & Sue Nassivera Family, and the Shirley & Russ Wendell family, his wife of 52 years Patricia, six children and their spouses; Rhonda & Roger DeMarsh, Kathleen & Ed Zumback, Edward Jr. & Mary Ryan, Ann Marie & Scott Chagnon, Jonathan & April Ryan, Tracy and Daniel Ryan, and in his words all of his “sweetheart darlin’s” (grandchildren); Marcia & Chris Hazelton, Artie Smith, Carly Sciancalepore, Mae, Maggie, & McCormick Ryan, Jacob and Natalie Ryan, Alissa and Rachel DeMarsh, Tyler and Rian Chagnon, (great-grandchildren); Mckenna Rose Hazelton, and Natalie Rose Smith. The family would like to thank all of those who helped over the years, including friends, family, neighbors, and emergency personnel. His presence will be missed greatly!
Friends may call from 4-7pm on Thursday, January 9, 2014 at M.B. Kilmer Funeral Home 82 Broadway Fort Edward, NY 12828.
A funeral service will be conducted following hours at 7pm with Rev. Patti Girard, pastor of Hartford Yoked Parrish, officiating.
Burial will be at Union Cemetery, Fort Edward at the convenience of the family.
In lieu of flowers, donations in honor of Edward J. Ryan can be made in recognition of their important service to the Fort Edward Rescue Squad, Po. Box 226, Fort Edward, NY 12828 or the Fort Edward Fire Department, 114 Broadway, Fort Edward, NY 12828.

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