William A. "Bill" Ryan, age 83, of Springfield, Missouri, passed away on Tuesday, September 17, after a short illness. Bill was born on February 6, 1930, the son of James "Lee" and Virginia Ryan. He attended Springfield High School (now Central) and Southwest Missouri State College (now MSU). He was a member and served as president of Kappa Alpha fraternity. He was also an active member of the Young Republicans' organization. While attending Southwest Missouri State College, he met his wife of 52 ½ years, Kay (Bane). They were married on August 9, 1953. During the Korean War, Bill proudly served in the U.S. Naval Reserve. Up until his illness he was self-employed as a real estate investment broker. Besides being an avid baseball (especially St. Louis Cardinals) and NASCAR fan, Bill had a great love for the outdoors. He truly loved hiking, camping, canoeing, and fishing anytime of the year. He also enjoyed spending time with the family pets through the years. Bill is preceded in death by his parents; brother, James Jr. and his wife, Kay. He is survived by a daughter, Debra; a son, Robert; and a sister, Jane. Bill was laid to rest with a private burial service on Thursday, Sept. 19, at Maple Park Cemetery, under the care of Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home. If friends wish to honor his life, memorial contributions may be made to the following charities he supported: American Cancer Society, American Lung Association and American Heart Association. Daddy, we wish you peace as you are reunited with Mom. You have left family and friends with a host of memories that will remain in our hearts forever. We love you dearly.