Philip Ryan

Philip Joseph Ryan, 54, passed away 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, and 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 Mt. 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 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; daughters Shannon (Mike) Marceau of Seattle, and 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 6-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 at the Press Box in Missoula on Nov. 3, 2011, at 6 p.m. 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.