Thomas Joseph Ryan, 64, of Groveland, unexpectedly made his passage from this realm at home on January 14, 2017. He was born May 17, 1952 in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, the son of the late John Ryan, Jr. and Margaret Gibbs Ryan, who survives.

"T.J." as he was affectionately called by his family and friends, loved athletics from elementary school age. He played lacrosse, soccer and football. During Mr. Ryan's first marriage to the late Kay Willinger, the couple was blessed with three daughters, while Ryan served his country as a code breaker in the United States Air Force. Tours of duty were spent in Alaska and Europe. T.J. then worked in construction for thirty years, proving himself adept and multitalented when faced with differing challenges. On April 22, 2000, T.J. married Laura Robbins and they became the parents of a son. Loving the outdoors as he did, Mr. Ryan enjoyed to the fullest his family's rural home outside Groveland for the past several years. His expansive personality, the ever present twinkle in his eye and his fondness for friendly banter were key to many a memorable evening.

In addition to his mother, T.J. is survived by his adored wife, Laurie; three daughters, Dawn, Shannon and Lyndee; one son, Griffin Thomas, at home, three granddaughters, Arusha, Breanna and Emily; one grandson, Ithaca; special cousins, Liz and Charlene; mother-in-law, Gene and brother-in-law, Mark.

A tribute to T.J. will be announced at a later date. Cards may be sent c/o Becker Funeral Home, 806 W. Minneola Avenue, Clermont, FL 346711. In lieu of flowers, donations in T.J.'s honor may be made to the National Parks Conservation Association, 777 – 6 ^th Street, NW, Suite 700, Washington, DC 20001.