Rosemary Elizabeth Ryan

Rosemary Elizabeth Ryan, 82, passed away peacefully June 23 after a life well-lived. Born on September 19, 1942, in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, to Vernon and Martha Milligan, Rosemary was a woman of intellect, dedication, and boundless love for her family.

Rosemary pursued higher education with fervor, earning her degree from Clarion University and later, her Master's in Speech and Language Pathology from Western Washington University – an impressive feat accomplished while raising her four children.

She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Richard Ryan; her parents, Vernon and Martha Milligan; and her sister, Judith Penny.

A truly devoted mother, Rosemary poured her heart into raising her four children. She cherished their childhoods, organizing countless summer adventures to lakes, beaches, and the Bayside Swimming Pool. Never satisfied with sitting on the sidelines, she spent many years leading her daughters’ Girls Scout troop.

Rosemary had a wide range of passions. She was a member of various book clubs, constantly exploring new stories. Her love for nature was evident in her passion for bird watching, where she meticulously documented hundreds of species. In the 70s and 80s, she and Richard were active in their church and the Bellingham Yacht Club. She especially enjoyed spending summers sailing and participating in the yacht club’s Wednesday night sailboat races. Later in life, she found joy in camping, particularly on Lopez Island in the San Juans. This evolved into "glamping" and later, tranquil stays at the Islander Resort.

After Richard's passing, Rosemary embraced quieter moments, enjoying reading at home and gentle walks in the park. Her coffee dates with her children and grandchildren, especially at Boulevard Park, were cherished occasions. In her final days, she found comfort in the presence of family and neighbors and the simple pleasure of watching squirrels and birds. A mocha or cherry pie brought a special twinkle to her eye.

Rosemary is survived by her loving children: Timothy (Carol) Ryan, Kevin Ryan, Kathleen (Mike) Szolowicz, and Brigid (Randy) Smith. She leaves behind eleven grandchildren: Andrew Ryan, Jeffery Ryan, Ceraphina Ryan, Nichole Bartel, Krista Eich, Joanna Szolowicz, Michael Szolowicz, Josh Szolowicz, Jonathan Smith, Ricky Smith, and Caitlin Smith. Rosemary was also blessed with two great-grandchildren, Macy and Lilly (daughters of Nichole). Her presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

We are immensely grateful to Rosemary's cherished friends and neighbors, whose unwavering support and kindness were a tremendous comfort to her and our family. Our heartfelt thanks also go to the compassionate teams at Chuckanut Ridge and Eden Hospice, who provided such thoughtful and dignified care to Rosemary.