Colonel (Ret) James Hyland Ryan

Colonel (Ret) James “Jim” Hyland Ryan, of Littleton, Colorado, passed away peacefully on October 11, 2025, at the age of 89. He was born on November 13, 1935, in Chateaugay, New York, a small town that shaped his enduring love of country, faith, and family. 

Jim dedicated his life to service — to his God, family, nation, and community. A proud officer in the United States Air Force and graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy (Class of 1958), Col Ryan served with distinction over a long and honorable career, earning the Legion of Merit Medal. The highlight of his career was Commander of the 4315th Missile Combat Training Squadron at Vandenberg AFB in the 1980s. His leadership, integrity, and unwavering commitment to his country left an indelible mark on those who served beside him. 

Beyond his military career, Jim was first and foremost a husband, father, and grandfather. The son of Francis T. and Mary (Hyland) Ryan of Chateaugay, NY, he is survived by his devoted wife, Doreen Roach Ryan (born in Plattsburgh, NY), his six children and their spouses — Sean Ryan (Glenda Ryan), Kathleen Ryan (Noel Coyne), Patrick Ryan (Cheryl Ryan), Colleen Ryan-Mallon (Charles Mallon), Maureen O’Brien (Patrick O’Brien), and Timothy Ryan (Rose Lieu) — fifteen grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, sister Maureen Donoghue, and brothers Kevin Ryan and Steve Ryan. His legacy of love, faith, and laughter lives on through them. 

Jim will be remembered for his steadfast faith, his great storytelling and humor, his unwavering positive attitude, and nights at the piano leading the room in renditions of “Those Were The Days.”  

A funeral mass will be held at Light of the World Catholic Church in Littleton, Colorado, to honor his life and service. Following the service, he will be laid to rest in Chateaugay, New York, the hometown that always held his heart. 

Col (Ret) James Hyland Ryan lived a life defined by faith, duty, and love. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. 

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations to his favorite charities: United Way, Public Broadcasting Service or the Colorado Symphony.  

Public Viewing & Funeral Mass 

Tuesday, October 21, 2025 

Light of The World Catholic Church 

10306 W Bowles Ave, Littleton, CO 80127 

• Public Viewing:  10:00 am
• Funeral Mass:  11:00 am
• Lunch Reception 12:00 noon

Memorial Mass & Burial 

Plans are underway for a burial in Chateaugay, NY, on Friday, Nov 7 (tent).  The family will share more details on this soon.