Betty Ryan

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Ryan, Betty Age 94, passed away February 9th. Predeceased by husband of 66 years, Bob, parents Albert Swift and Elsie Dimberg, brothers Pat and Dennis Swift. Survived by daughter, Patty, of Burbank, CA, and son, Greg, of Studio City, CA Betty was born January 12, 1923 in Washington, Iowa. She grew up during the depression on a farm in Lynd, MN, and was a cheerleader for Lynd High School, graduating in a class of only 14 in 1941. She always longed to be a 'city girl' and moved to Minneapolis after high school to attend Minneapolis Business College. She took the skills she learned there to move to Los Angeles during WW2. She lived in Hollywood, working for interior decorating firms, and loved the excitement and glamour of California. All her life, she loved reading about movie stars and their lives. Though she loved living in LA, she was always homesick for her mother and family, so when the war ended, Betty returned to Minneapolis to join her family there. She worked for an ad agency and loved the advantage of working right downtown in those days. On a blind date, she met the handsome, young radio announcer, Bob Ryan. They were married in 1948, and Bob became one of first news anchors for KSTP-TV. That same year, their son Greg was born. Three years later, Patty was born and the family moved into their brand new home in South Minneapolis, which was always her favorite place to be. More than anything, Betty loved being a homemaker and devoted wife. She was the best, most loving mother anyone could hope to have had. In the early years, the young couple had many house parties with the other young neighbors from 'The Greatest Generation'. Holidays were always made special family occasions, thanks to Betty's hospitality. She adored reading and crossword puzzles, and was always ready for her afternoon 'coffee parties' with her special pals to catch up on the latest neighborhood gossip. Her sharp wit and dry sense of humor were loved by all. In 1971, Bob's change of job took them to Rochester, Minnesota where she made wonderful friends, but still longed for her Minneapolis home, to which they returned in 1985. Throughout their long marriage, Betty and Bob also enjoyed traveling together, taking yearly cruises as well as annual trips to California to visit the 'kids'. Betty finally went to live at Mt. Olivet Careview Home in 2013, where she received compassionate, dedicated care for over 3 years. Her friend, Luann Bartko deserves special thanks for years of loving care-giving. Memorial Service will Wednesday, February 22, 2pm, at Mt. Olivet Home Chapel, 5517 Lyndale Avenue South, Minneapolis 55419. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Mt. Olivet Careview Home. Washburn-McReavy.com Nokomis Park Chapel 612-721-1651

Published on February 19, 2017