In Celebration of

Steve Ryan

November 5, 1943 -  August 11, 2025

Steve Ryan, a kind and gentle soul walked softly on this earth for almost 82 years. Sadly, he passed away peacefully on August 11, 2025. Steve worked for the City of Toronto in a capacity far removed from his background in Greek and Roman history and English literature. He enjoyed playing chess, guitar, tennis and skiing and had a big heart for turtles.

Steve is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, June, sisters Catherine Hennessey (Bob), Marilyn Marshall (late Ken), brother Allan Ryan (Laurel) and beloved sister-in-law Phyllis Hoshino.

The family would like to acknowledge Home Instead and their very caring staff. A special thank you to Anna and the team - Sami, Amisa, Karla, Aurora and Normalita. Also a shout out to Emma, Marilyn and Sanvra from Ontario Health atHome. We give heartfelt thanks to the entire ICU staff who made Steve's stay comfortable and bearable at Mt. Sinai Hospital.

Arrangements are under the care of Turner & Porter Yorke Chapel at 2357 Bloor St. W., Toronto. Visitation will take place on Tuesday August 19, 2025 at 10 a.m. preceding the funeral service at 11 a.m. Interment will follow immediately after at Park Lawn Cemetery at 2845 Bloor West. Following the interment, family and friends are invited to a reception at Turner and Porter.

Guestbook 

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Archie Braganza (Friend and City of Toronto work colleague.)

Entered August 14, 2025 from Mississauga

Deeply saddened by Steve's passing. I spoke to Steve last summer, and planned calling Steve shortly. Alas, too late.

I knew Steve since 1978, when he joined the City of Toronto. We become good friends since, and I have good memories of the many Friday lunches we had together in the 80's, 90's and early 2000s. And the sometime daily lunch walks and chats. Together with mutual friend and Colleague Doug Kawasaki, who quite sadly passed some six weeks ago. We had many mutually rewarding conversations on History, Poetry and Philosophy. And yes, he mentioned his affinity for turtles , procuring some and releasing them.

Steve was indeed humble and kind . Truly gifted, I recall he had once wrote an computer Macro, that had enormously benefitted the Accounting Division and that of all City accounting departments. Yet, he declined the spotlight and recognition. A rare trait .

Farewell my dear friend, you will never be forgotten
Rest in eternal peace, Steve.

Archie




Cliff Watson 

Entered August 15, 2025 from Coldwater

Hi June, I want to extend my sympathy to you and the family. Although I didn't know Steve, I always heard about him through Phyliss and my sister Joyce. I know how hard things have been for you trying to cope with his illness. My heartfelt thoughts are with you. I know it will leave a big hole in your heart and life. One day at a time.
Very Sincerely
Cliff watson

David Amos (Old Acquaintance)

Entered August 15, 2025 from PORTLAND OREGON

What a lovely and touching tribute. I knew Steve liked chess but had no idea of his interest in ancient history.
I jave nothing but good memories of Steve during those 70s years in Toronto.
June, healing thoughts for you.

Peter Cook (Family)

Entered August 15, 2025 from Toronto

So sorry to hear the news. We always enjoyed seeing Steve at family gatherings, especially annually at Thanksgiving. It was often around the baseball playoffs, and we would chat good-naturedly about the Jays, and various kinds of pitches. You will be missed, Steve.

Love from Laura, and Jonathan and me

Tracey Machida and Rodney Upton (Cousin)

Entered August 16, 2025 from Ottawa

Dear June

We are thinking about you and Steve and our many get togethers sharing our mutual love of family and good food.

We will miss Steve's quiet wit and his obvious love for our dogs and indeed all animals.

It must be extremely tough right now but hopefully in the not too distant future, the pain will fade and the happy memories will prevail.

Love and hugs,
TR and Rodney

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