Gene Joseph Ryan

Gene Joseph Ryan passed away April 27^th in Gainesville, Florida. Gene was born in Jacksonville on January 12, 1928.  A resident of Morriston FL, he is survived by his wife, Charlotte Greene Ryan, daughters Cynthia Ryan, Theresa Ryan & Rebecca Wendlandt, and grandchildren Megan and Ryan Wendlandt.

Gene received his education from Duval High Schools, Jacksonville University, and the University of Florida. He also served in the United States Army. Always active in sports, he played baseball, football, basketball, and ran track.  His greatest claim to Gator sports fame was pitching no-hitter shutout with two other freshmen against the varsity team.  While in the service, Gene also proved a formidable opponent in the boxing ring, even appearing at Madison Square Garden.

He went on to have a successful career in finance, insurance and banking.  In 1986 he retired as Senior Executive Vice President of First Union National Bank, and moved to Homossassa to enjoy his lifelong passion for fishing and hunting.