Life is made of the ebb and flow of others…some to know, some to love, some only to pass by. But some people stay with you long after they’re gone. On November 29, 2025, our world became a little quieter when Michael James Ryan, at just 39, left us…leaving behind a soundtrack and spirit that will stay with us always.

Mike was loud in laughter and carried a quiet resilience beneath it all. His love for music was fierce, whether he was playing guitar, sharing a favorite song, or getting lost in one. One of his most unforgettable moments was seeing Arcade Fire at Red Rocks with his cousin Aisling, and when ‘Wake Up’ filled the amphitheater, he was the happiest version of himself. Mike knew a little bit about everything, especially the kind of ‘useless’ knowledge that made him annoyingly good at trivia. And even though his stories were always long, he told them the way he lived, with detours, details, and so much heart. And somehow you were always glad you listened, even if the story took the scenic route and you completely forgot where it started. He was also good for a few pranks, especially around the holidays. And no one embraced Halloween more fully. Sir Elton John would be proud. Above all, Mike made being together feel easy. He listened deeply, laughed hard, and filled any room not just with his presence but with warmth. He marched to the beat of his own drum, an old soul with a laugh you can still hear when you close your eyes.

The people Mike held closest were his mother Mary, her longtime companion Coop, his sister Katie and his nephew Devin. He is also remembered with love by his father Steve and his wife Sue. Mike shared a close bond with his uncle and aunt, Don and Caroline, and with his cousins, Tim, Aisling and Kelsey. He now joins his grandparents John “Googie” and Norma Gallagher, and his grandmother Aletta Ryan.

After his time with the Carpenters Union, Mike found his way to Taylor Rental in Weymouth, where he found not only a job, but a genuine friendship with his boss, Bob, who became like family to him. Bob shared, “The quality of a person are those who can listen. Everyone is different. Mike had that skill set.” He also treasured his lifelong friendship with his best friend, Geoff. A bond built over decades of laughter, loyalty, (mischief), and the kind of brotherhood that withstands every season of life.

We are shaped by those who walk beside us, even for a little while, and Mike was one of those rare souls who left everyone a little better for having known him.

May his song continue in all of us.

Mike’s family invites friends and loved ones to celebrate his life in the Magoun-Biggins Funeral Home on Friday, December 12, 2025 from 4:00-7:00 PM.

Memorial donations in Mike’s name may be made to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Center.

JDRF Greater New England Chapter 62 Walnut Street, Suite 5 Wellesley, MA 02481