Dorothy Ryan

Dorothy Ann (Mayer) Ryan, age 82, of Perham , MN , died Friday, March 13, 2009 , at the Perham Memorial Nursing Home after a courageous battle with cancer.


Dorothy was born in Elk Grove , CA , on May 19, 1926 , to Albin F. and Olga (Hall) Mayer. She grew up in Alexandria and St. Paul , and graduated from St. Joseph ’s Academy in 1945. She worked as a secretary in St. Paul for several years. She met her husband, William K. Ryan, on a high school hayride arranged through mutual friends. They married on June 10, 1950 , and moved to Perham to raise their family, where Bill made his chiropractic practice and could hunt and fish. Dorothy’s main purpose in life was nurturing her family and was involved with St. Henry’s church choir, Christian Mothers, Catholic Daughters, American Legion, VFW Auxiliary, Cub Scout den mother, and Campfire Girls leader. She loved spending time with her family, friends, and her prayer group. She enjoyed cooking, playing cards, and discussing family, religion, and politics. She was always so thoughtful; phoning family and friends, and sending cards and letters. She blessed all who came in contact with her and you’d always feel better after spending some time with her. Her humility, encouraging kindness, and love will stay with us always. She set a faith-filled Christian example with her devotion to Our Lord and His Blessed Mother, through her daily prayers and conversations. Our world is a better place because of all of Dorothy’s prayers.



Dorothy is survived by six children, James Ryan, Perham, MN; Kathleen (Pat) Feesl, Stillwater, MN; Mary Jo Baez, Fergus Falls, MN; Michael (Sandy) Ryan, Fargo, ND; Theresa (Greg) Jaroszewski, Moorhead, MN; and Peggy (Greg) Gilbertson, Pelican Rapids, MN; and a brother, Al (Beverly) Mayer. Dorothy had many wonderful grandchildren and great grandchildren. She is also survived by many special friends and caregivers at the Perham Memorial Hospital and Home and Hospice of the Red River Valley .



Preceding Dorothy in death are her parents; husband, Bill; infant son, Gerard Joseph; and sister-in-law, Pat Mayer.