Michael Thomas Ryan, Mike to all who knew him, passed away at home on June 27, 2026, in Nokesville, Virginia, after a courageous battle with cancer. At the age of 73, Mike took the hand of Jesus his Savior and went to his true home, leaving behind a legacy characterized by generosity to those in need, a delightful sense of humor, and deep familial love.

Mike was born on February 27, 1953, at Ft Devens in Shirley, Massachusetts into a military family. When his family was stationed at Asmara, Eritrea (former Ethiopia), eleven-year-old Mike would skip school, hiding his books in a culvert, and sneak off post to wander the streets of Asmara, especially the 'Bosh' or slum area. There he saw true poverty firsthand and experienced the generosity of people in need willing to share with a complete stranger. Those experiences left lasting impressions on Mike’s life. When the family returned stateside, to Nokesville, VA, Mike attended Brentsville District High School, where he graduated with honors in 1971. From there, he earned a degree in Psychology at UVA, graduating in 1975. While at UVA, Mike was an active member of Sigma Nu Fraternity, Beta Chapter which he accredits with teaching him personal independence and self-reliance—principles that guided him throughout his career and personal life.

The Ryan family built a marina on an inlet to Lake Manassas adjacent to their farm property in the 1980’s that allowed public access to fishing and boating on the lake. Mike operated the marina, managing boat rentals and supplies to families and fishermen until 1999 when the marina closed. During summer breaks and immediately following college graduation, Mike worked in a variety of construction jobs gaining experience in the building trades. From this experience, he began business as a contractor building decks, built his house, and established a lumber and building supply business that he ran until his final illness.

Mike was a long time member of Greenwich Presbyterian Church and had a special fondness for friends in the Friday morning men's group whose fellowship became precious to him. 

Mike’s most treasured roles were those of husband, father, brother, and friend. He is survived by his devoted wife, Catherine (Cathy) Perdue Ryan, whose love and partnership was a source of strength and comfort throughout their years together. Mike also leaves behind his loving children: daughter Sarah C Bowlby (her husband, Rob) and son Daniel J Ryan (his wife Lauren), both of whom carry forward his values and enduring spirit. He also leaves his grandchildren Austin, Anna, Andrew, and Jubilee (Juju). He is survived by two sisters, Patti McKay and Joanie Ryan, as well as his brother-in-law Glenn Sinclair, all of whom shared in the many joys and challenges that shaped their family. His bonus sons Clinton Perdue (wife Susan), and Jarrett Perdue along with their children Leah and Robin (who taught him to sing the alphabet song), and Kieran, his godson. All grew to admire Mike's wit and 'out-of-the-box thinking'.

In memory of those who passed before him, Mike joins his baby sister Nancy Joan Ryan, sister Diane Sinclair, parents Josephine and John Ryan, and brother-in-law George McKay in eternal rest. Their memories, woven together with Mike’s own, are treasured by all who knew him.

Michael Thomas Ryan leaves behind a loving family and a wide circle of friends who remember him for his kindness, integrity, and devotion. His memory will be cherished, and his legacy carried forward by those whose lives he enriched.

(In lieu of flowers, donations, or gifts to honor Mike, please consider finding someone in need and help them. If you know Mike, you probably already do that. Thank you. Cathy)