Karol Ann Ryan

Jan. 5, 1945 — Dec. 2, 2020 (age 75)

WARREN – Karol Ann Ryan, née Richter, 75, beloved mother, daughter, sister, aunt, companion, treasured friend and caregiver to many, died on Wednesday (Dec. 2). She passed away in her cherished home of more than 30 years.

Karol was born on Jan. 5, 1945 to Florence Sole and Eugene Richter on the United States Army's base in Fort Sill, Okla.

Karol graduated from Windham High School. On July 16, 1964, Karol married James Thomas Ryan, to whom she remained married until his death in 2003.

Karol worked for 42 years at Delphi Packard in Warren, retiring in 2007. During her years at Delphi, Karol volunteered her time and love to several charitable organizations and modeled for local businesses.

After retirement, Karol acted as a caregiver to many in the community, including her mother, who was a favorite resident at Autumn Hills Care Center in Niles.

Karol enjoyed creating jewelry for her friends and family.

One of the great loves of Karol's life was her son, James Timothy Ryan, with whom she often laughed, visited and traveled.

Karol and her longtime companion, Frank Petretich, enjoyed working outside, the occasional margarita with Mexican food, crossword puzzles and teasing each other.

In 2015, Karol faced a life-changing diagnosis that never daunted her; never diminished her spirit. Indeed, the courage with which Karol bravely battled her illness was unmatched and inspiring. Karol's fight persisted until her very last breath, with Frank by her side.

For the grace and care provided by the Cleveland Clinic and her caregivers, Karol's family remains forever grateful.

Survivors include Karol's beloved son, James Timothy Ryan, and his wife, Joanna Curtis; Karol's longtime companion Frank Petretich; brothers Joseph Richter, Charles Tiliske, Frank Meadows and Walter Namoski; a sister, Florence Allen; nieces Holly Rickard, Veronica Moore and Samantha Allen; nephews Geno Allen and Anthony Allen; and a great-niece, Tyler Rickard.

There will be no services due to the coronavirus pandemic. When it is safe to do so, the family will host a celebration of life at a place to be determined.

The family created the Karol Ryan Memorial Fund with the Hirshberg Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research located at http://pancreatic.org/how-you-can-help/you-can-help-funds/. To donate, click on "Give to a Fundraiser" and type in Karol Ryan.

Lane Funeral Homes, Roberts-Clark Chapel handled arrangements. Visit www.lanefuneralhomes.com to leave condolences for the family.

To send flowers to the family of Karol Ann Ryan, visit our Tribute Store.

This story was originally published December 4, 2020 at 5:05 PM with the headline "Karol Ann Ryan."