1928 – 2014

SABATTUS — John J. Ryan, 85, of Monmouth, passed away on Thursday, March 20, in Sabattus, with his family by his side.

He was born in Dorchester, Mass., on April 30, 1928, to parents Gordon and Clara (Nickelson) Ryan.

John was a member of both the Portland and Kennebec Rocks and Minerals Club. He had also been a member of St. Francis Xavier Church, where he briefly taught Sunday school, for the past 60 years.

He was a naturalist, and enjoyed gardening, farming and living off the land. He also enjoyed woodworking, building things, panning for gold, collecting rocks and minerals and being at the ocean, as well as reading, painting and music.

John worked for many years in orchards, working 35 years at Chick Orchard and 25 years at Willow Pond. He spent his life on the ocean working as a lobsterman, seaweed harvester and clam digger. He also worked in the forest.

Surviving him are his three daughters, Patricia Ryan, Theresa Tilley and Sarah Ryan; his stepson, Robert Johnson; three brothers, Robert, Tom and Richard; and three sisters, Claire, Mariam and Kathie. He also leaves behind eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his wife of 35 years, Linda; his parents; and his brother, Charlie.

Condolences may be expressed at FuneralAlternatives.net.