Obituary of Carolyn Teresa Ryan

Carolyn T. Ryan  91, of Tucson, passed away peacefully on July 19, 2019.  Carolyn was born on April 25, 1928 to Polish immigrants Joseph and Caroline Birofka.  She was one of nine siblings all who predeceased her:  William (Josephine), Matthew (Dianne), Veronica (Edward) Siergiej, Julia (Vincent) Moore, Joseph (Felicia), Mary (Vincent) Kane, Ameilia Lloyd, and John (Shirley).  After graduation from high school, she worked for Ciba Pharmaceuticals until her marriage to Martin Ryan on June 14, 1952.  Carolyn was an avid seamstress throughout her life.  She made her own dress and all the bridesmaid’s dresses for her wedding, and those of her two daughters. 

They moved to Tucson, AZ and created a family with the births of Debra, Donna, Marty Jr. and Mark. Carolyn worked part time but spent most of her time as a mom and homemaker.  Although she battled health issues most of her life, she was stronger than most and always made her family a priority.  She enjoyed family gatherings on the holidays and celebrated every birthday of her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  She was most proud of the Polish Christmas and Easter holiday traditions that she inspired in her family, teaching all to prepare and cook Polish delicacies from the “old country.”  Her kitchen was a crowded, joyful gathering place for family and friends during these times. 

When Marty passed away after 53 years of marriage in 2005, she grieved, but carried on.  She missed him until her dying day.   

Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought special joy to her through the years.  “Grammee” was especially proud of all their accomplishments whether in the classroom or on the athletic fields, in work or leisure.  She loved them all unconditionally. 

She is survived by daughters Debbie White and Donna (Herb) Wagner; sons Marty (Elizabeth) Ryan Jr. and Mark Ryan; grandchildren Bryan White and Jennifer (Trey) Olsen, Heather and Hanna Ryan, Benjamin Wagner, Hailey Erickson and Martin Ryan III; great grandchildren Tyler and Natalie Olsen, all of Tucson.  She also leaves behind brothers-in-law William Ryan and Philip (Joanne) Ryan of Summit, NJ, and numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.   

Her Catholic faith was uncompromised.  She was a longtime and sustaining member of St. Ambrose Parish and Catholic Daughters of America.  She will be greatly missed.   

Services on Wednesday, July 31, 2019; visitation at 10 a.m., Rosary at 10:30 a.m. and Funeral Mass at 11 a.m. at St. Ambrose Catholic Church located at 300 S. Tucson Blvd., followed by interment at Holy Hope Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation to St. Ambrose Parish or School. 

The family wishes to thank her home caregivers, Encompass Homecare, and the staff at The Center at Tucson hospice for their loving, compassionate care.