John W. Ryan, 75, of Sherman, died peacefully July 1. He was born September 4, 1938, in Meriden, and was the son of the late Emeline (O’Rouke) Ryan and the late John F. Ryan.

A daughter, Laurie R. Antous, and her spouse Joseph, of Newtown and a son, Michael J. Ryan, and his spouse Rosina, of Los Angeles, Calif.; and his four grandchildren, Brittney Antous, Brooke Antous, William Ryan, and Samantha Ryan, whom he loved dearly; two sisters and their families, Emeline and Ryan Demetrio of Wallingford and Rosemary Ryan O'Connell of Seattle, Wash., survive Mr Ryan.

After graduating from Meriden High School in 1956, Mr Ryan worked, attended college, and enlisted in the US Navy in 1961. He served six years during the Vietnam War in the nuclear submarine service as an electrician’s mate, petty officer first class.

He graduated from the University of Connecticut in 1970 with a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering. That year he joined Connecticut Light & Power, where he worked for 23 years in distribution and generation. He retired as a superintendent for the Housatonic Hydro Division of CL&P.

Mr Ryan had a love for many things, including classical Impressionistic art, antique clocks, music, Harley-Davidson motorcycles, old Cadillacs, and Ford trucks. He was particularly well known for his knowledge and skills in woodworking, especially in the restoration of antique boats, shared with many of his friends and family. He was a lover of all good things in life and made many laugh and marvel not only at his artistic and technical skills, but his wit, as well. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 10 am, Friday, July 11, at St Rose Church, 35 Center Street, Meriden. The burial will be held immediately following the funeral services at Sacred Heart Cemetery, 250 Gypsy Lane, Meriden. There are no calling hours.

For online condolences visit www.jferryfh.com.

The John J. Ferry and Sons Funeral Home of Meriden is entrusted with the arrangements.