Robert Ryan

Robert James Ryan passed away peacefully on April 1st, 2024 in Chicago, IL at the age of 70.  Robert is survived by his wife, Bib Davis Ryan; his three sons, Christopher, David, and Corby; two daughters by marriage, Clémence (David), and Noelle (Corby); and one granddaughter Léonie; siblings Trisha, Dolly, Claire, John, Paul, Mary Ann, and Deborah .

Robert was born on September 28th, 1953 in Derby, England to Robert A. Ryan, and Isobel “Pat” England. Robert is a graduate of Ampleforth College (1972), Aix-Marseille Université (1978), and Oxford Brookes University (1979).

Robert moved to America in 1979 to be with the love of his life, Bib, whom he met in Aix-en-Provence. The two were married a year later in 1980. After moving to America, Robert began working as a French tutor prior to starting his career in business development. Robert and Bib welcomed their three sons into their lives over the next several years.

Robert’s sons remember him as a man of action who encouraged people to pursue their passions in life, while making sure to have fun along the way.

Robert had a deep and abiding appreciation for history: he was always ready to share details about any and all British wars—and he loved traveling and learning about other cultures. He was a generous individual who loved helping others, and was commonly found with a glass of red wine in his hand. He was a long-time active member of the Park Ridge community, having held many elected and volunteer positions.  In retirement, he and Bib spent much of their time in the south of France, and Robert continued his life-long dedication to volunteerism through the Newberry Library when in the USA. 

A memorial will be held at Cooney Funeral Home (625 Busse Hwy, Park Ridge, IL 60068) on Saturday, April 6th from 1:00 – 5:00pm. A service is scheduled for 2:00pm on Sunday, April 7th at Park Ridge Community Church (100 Courtland Ave, Park Ridge, IL 60068). All are welcome to attend and celebrate Robert’s life. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider honoring Robert with a donation to Gracia, Inc. at https://graciainc.org/donate/.