Michael Joseph Ryan, dedicated firefighter

Michael Joseph Ryan, of Smyrna, passed away suddenly at his residence Tuesday July 30, 2013.

He was born in Wilmington, and moved to Smyrna with his family in the early 1990s. Mike proudly owned and operated Ryan Lawn Care in Smyrna for many years. He was a former member of the Elsmere and Christiana fire companies, as well as the American Legion Post 14 Ambulance Service in Smyrna for many years. He was a life member of Citizens Hose Co., Smyrna, and very active in the company until the time of his passing. Mike also was an avid Philadelphia sports fan.

He was preceded in death by two sons, Michael and Shawn Ryan; a sister, Lisa Weitz; and his stepfather, Carl S. Weitz. He is survived by his loving wife of 27 years, Norma Ryan; four children, William M. Ryan, of Conowingo, Md., and Matthew J. Ryan, Nicole R. Ryan, and Michelle C. Ryan, all of Smyrna; his mother, Shirley Weitz; his father, Joe Ryan; a sister, Lori J. Allan, of Lewes; a brother, Chris Weitz of Millsboro; and two grandchildren, Aiden and Chase Ryan; and many nieces and nephews.

Services were held Sunday Aug. 4, at Matthews-Bryson Funeral Home, 123 W. Commerce St., Smyrna. Interment was private.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be sent to, Citizens Hose Co., PO Box 97, Smyrna, DE 19977.