Michael Francis Ryan

Michael Francis Ryan

Iowa City

Michael Francis Ryan, 79, of Iowa City, passed away on February 23 at his home, surrounded by family.

A visitation will be held at Lensing Funeral and Cremation Service on Sunday, March 1, 2026, from 4-7:00 pm. The funeral service will be held on Monday, March 2, 2026, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Solon, beginning at 9:00 am, officiated by Father Charles Fladung. Burial will follow the service at St. Bridget’s Cemetery in Solon. Luncheon will be served at the Morse Community Club following burial.

Mike was born on March 27, 1946, in Iowa City, to parents Michael and Viola (Eagle) Ryan. He grew up on a farm outside of Solon and was a graduate of Solon High School. Mike Joined the Army Reserves during the Vietnam War after graduating from High School.

Mike married Barb Robertson on July 27, 1968, at St. Bridget’s in Solon, and to this union four children were born, Amy, Tracy, Angie, and John. The family moved to West Branch for seven years, before ultimately moving to rural Iowa City.

Mike worked as a farmer but would go on to work as the Facilities Maintenance Manager for the University of Iowa, where he worked for 27 years. He also worked in roofing and did a lot of coaching for Solon Middle School and club basketball. Mike retired in 2010 and spent his time with grandkids’ events, playing cards, hunting and farming.

Mike was a Johnson County Trustee and was on the Morse Community Club Board. He was also a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Solon.

Mike will be remembered for his love of farming, Solon Athletics and spending time with family.

Mike is survived by his loving wife, Barb Ryan; his children, Amy (Jake) Ganske, Tracy (Jon) LaDage, Angie (Tim) McCormick, and John (Hannah) Ryan; his grandchildren, Abby (Jarred) Edmonds, Zach Ganske, Ryan (Katie) LaDage, Jenna Ladage (Casey Prange), Claire LaDage, Emma McCormick (Bryer Wiley), Sydney McCormick, Luke McCormick, Isabelle Ryan, Maddie Ryan, and Sienna Ryan; one great-grandchild, Kohen (Edmonds), two great-grandchildren on the way (Edmonds & LaDage); his siblings, Jean Spurgeon and Danny Ryan; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents Michael and Viola Ryan; his brothers, Denny and Patrick Ryan; and sister, Mary Hoyer.

Memorial donations may be directed to St. Croix Hospice, Friends of St. Bridget, or the Solon Athletic Booster Club.