Douglas Ryan

Colonie – Douglas Ryan, 68, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, March 6, surrounded by those he loved.

Doug was born in Syracuse, NY and grew up in the Capital District. The eldest brother of eight siblings, Doug shouldered family responsibility early on and provided unending love, support and with his legendary sense of humor throughout their lives. He leaves a huge hole in the hearts of his family and friends who were always entertained by his stories, especially when they involved the many unique situations Doug often found himself in. "Why I gotta be the one?" was a question Doug often pondered.

A proud Marine, Doug returned from Vietnam to work at the Watervliet Arsenal while obtaining his degree as a Machinist from HVCC. Doug later started his own company as a general contractor, while also working as a Superintendent on multiple commercial job sites. There are few among us who haven't benefited from Doug's wide variety of knowledge and skill, particularly his son Jason who was known to be on his first job site at 8 years old. One of Doug's favorite sayings was "Contractors…building a better America one job at a time".

An avid Harley rider, Doug eagerly awaited nicer weather so he could get his bikes out onto the open road with his long time friends and fellow riders; often comparing himself to Peter Fonda in Easy Rider. On the other hand, Doug often told us that he was sure JFK was his father and that he had his own room at the Kennedy Compound!

Underneath Doug's gruff exterior beat a heart of genuine compassion. Doug was always willing to go out of his way to lend a hand or help lift someone up when they were down. There are so many people who's lives Doug has quietly touched, we will never know them all. He will be missed by so many.

Doug is survived by his loving partner of 22 years, Shelly Printsky Valek, his beloved children, Jason Ryan and Kathryn Ryan, his siblings, Lenora (Dennis) Duggan, Brenda (Jim) Reagan, Jim Ryan, Jean Ryan, Patty (Ron) Paone, Patrick Sofarelli, Terri Sofarelli, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, and too many friends to count. Heartfelt thanks to Doug's niece, Sue Koller, who visited us for many evenings, and who sat with me overnight in the darkest of hours, so Doug could be guided home.

The family would also like to thank all of the team members of the Oncology Dept at the Albany Stratton VA Hospital for the loving and wonderful care they provided Doug throughout his battle. Your kindness will not be forgotten.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Doug's honor to Operation At Ease (operationatease.org), 203 Central Ave, Schenectady, NY 12304, or the Wounded Warrior Project.org.

Semper Fi, Doug. We love you.

Calling hours will be held on Thursday, March, 10, 2022 from 4pm-7pm at New Comer Cremations & Funerals, 181 Troy Schenectady Rd. Watervliet, NY 12189. Funeral services will be Friday at 9:30am at the funeral home. Interment will full military honors will follow at Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery.

To leave a special message for the family online please visit NewComerAlbamy.com