Philip Joseph Ryan

Philip Joseph Ryan, 54, passed away

Saturday, Oct. 8, 2011 at St. Patrick Hospital in Missoula after a

short but courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by his loving

family.

Born in Butte on May 12, 1957 to John

and Loretta Ryan, Phil was raised in Townsend along with his three

sisters Peggy (John) Vogt of Los Angeles, Kathleen Ryan of

Kalispell, Susie Ryan of Kalispell, and brother John (Tina) Ryan of

Seattle. After High School graduation in 1975 he attended Carroll

College in Helena on a football scholarship.

For 10 years Phil enjoyed his time as a

logger in the Flathead area of Montana while working for Canyon

Logging. He later continued his education at the University of

Montana where he received a degree in athletic training. In 1990 he

found his niche as a strength, and offensive and defensive line

coach for the University of Montana Grizzlies.

It was here that his influence reached

many members of the Grizzly Family and will continue to do so for

years to come. Phil had an innate ability to help people. His

healing hands touched many people who will be forever grateful.

Phil loved the outdoors to say the

least and if he was not going for a “little sashay” to the top of

Mount Sentinel every morning, he could be found in the woods

calling in the year’s first elk, on the closest river “catchin’a

fish,” or pursuing his true passion of mentoring athletes.

Phil’s was most proud of his four

amazing daughters. It gave him such great joy to see Shannon and

Brenna grow up and have beautiful families of their own. Watching

Quinn and Hannah grow and mature into “stunning” young ladies

warmed his heart and soul.

Phil is survived by his parents,

siblings, wife, Loren and their daughters Quinn and Hannah Ryan of

Missoula. He is also survived by daughters, Shannon (Mike) Marceau

of Seattle, Brenna (Jamie) Livingston of Bozeman; grandchildren,

Max and Gus Marceau and Mason, Maryn, and McCall Livingston.

The family would like to thank St.

Patrick Hospital for the wonderful care given to Phil during his

six week stay. Special thanks to Dr. Lakatua, Dr. Beatty, all the

hospitalists, nurses and nurses aides (Tessie, you are

amazing).

Upon Phil’s request, an official

funeral will not be held. For those who can attend, a benefit to

celebrate Phil’s life will be held on Nov. 3 at 6 p.m. at the Press

Box in Missoula. All proceeds from this event will go to an

educational trust for Quinn and Hannah. In lieu of flowers,

donations may be made to the Quinn and Hannah Ryan Educational

Account at First Interstate Bank. Garden City Funeral Home is

assisting with arrangements.