Virgil J. Ryan

Virgil J. Ryan was born on Oct. 29, 1933 in Geneva, MN., the son of Norval and Grayce Johnson Ryan. He attended and graduated from Albert Lea High School in 1951. On June 4, 1955 Virgil was united in marriage to Shirley Larkin at Queen of Angels, Austin, MN. He was employed at Hemingway Concrete for 17 years and then Brua Masonary . Virgil loved playing and watching all types of sports. He enjoyed bowling, golf, playing cards, pool and softball where he was inducted into the Softball Hall of Fame. He also would travel to umpire fast pitch softball for both men and women. Virgil also worked and managed the Moose Lodge and the Union Center. In his later years he enjoyed watching his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren participate in their various sports. Virgil delivered meals on the go and was recently the secretary. In his retirement Virgil worked for his grandson at the Wells Super Valu as a stocker and carry out person. Virgil was a member of the Moose, Elks, Eagles and St. Theodore's Catholic Church where he served as a Eucharistic Minister. Virgil was well known for his ability to tell stories and was doing that until God took his hand. Survivors include his wife, Shirley, daughters; Vicky and husband Dave Book, Albert Lea, Cheryl and husband Jerry Wilma, Winona and son Jeff and wife Steph Ryan, Winona. Grandchildren; Amy and husband Bruce Mandler, Heather and husband Bryan Lande, Bridget Wilma, John Wilma, Anthony Wilma, Scotty Ryan, Joe Ryan, Nick Ryan and Alex Ryan. Two great-grandchildren, Felicia Mandler and Alexis Mandler. Sisters, Norvaleen "Mic" Mandt, Albert Lea, Marcella "Sally" and husband Merle Aase, Northwood, IA., Janet and husband Andy Anderson, Sun City, AZ, and Gloria and husband Donald Hagen, Northwood, IA. Several nieces, nephews and cousins. Virgil was preceded in death by his parents, brother-in-law, Richard Mandt and great granddaughter, Ashley Mandler.