Carlton Reese Ryan

Carlton Reese Ryan, 85, passed away on October 24th , surrounded by his loving family.

Carlton was born on October 27th , 1937, to Robert and Ruth Ryan of Malloryville, NY. He often shared stories of his youth,
with his sister Mary and brother Rolly, working his grandparents farm and exploring Fall Creek and the pastures
surrounding. In 8th grade, he was moved from Cassavant (McLean) School to Dryden, where he met his future lifelong
wife, Jean Wilson.

Carlton and Jean built a home on a piece of his grandfather’s farm, and raised four children: Matthew, Stephanie, Steven,
and Roland. He provided for the family by working as a graphic artist for Cornell University. More than an artist, he was a builder and craftsman, making exhibits for the New York State Fair and always creating things with his hands.

Carlton had a passion for intricate machines, loving World War II airplanes, Wheel Horse garden tractors, bicycles, motorcycles, and cars. He was the proud owner of every General Motors oddity, including multiple Corvairs, a Vegas, and a little red Fiero. He built beautiful wooden models, and would attend to the smallest details with ingenious reuse of household materials.

Carlton retired in 1992, and spent the rest of his days devoted to his family and his crafts. He and Jean revolved their days around the antics and activities of their grandchildren, Alex and Sophia Ryan, Cullen and Evan Ryan, Evelyn Ross, and Armand, Domenick, and Gelsomina Zerilli. Memories of days spent with Grammy and Grampy are cherished by all.

Carlton was predeceased by his wife, Jean Ryan (2018), and his daughter, Stephanie Zerilli of Lansing (2023). He is survived by siblings, Roland Ryan and Mary Pittman; his three sons, Matthew Ryan (KC) of Ithaca, Steven Ryan (Margaret) of Cortland, and Roland Ryan (Rosanne) of Vestal; eight grandchildren, and a large extended family.

Friends may call from 11 am to 1 pm, Saturday, October 28th at the Shurtleff Funeral Home, 103 Lincoln Ave., Groton.  A memorial service will follow calling hours at 1 pm. A private burial will follow the service.