Maple Grove, Minnesota - Lawrence Gary "Larry Gary" Ryan, age 89, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on November 20, 2025, in Maple Grove, Minnesota. A spirited and devoted family man, Lawrence lived a full and vibrant life marked by dedication to his loved ones, professional excellence, and a passion for adventure.
Born on October 1, 1936, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Lawrence was the son of Harold and Viola Ryan. He pursued his education in business at the University of Minnesota.
Lawrence served his country with honor in the United States Navy before embarking on a distinguished professional journey with Beltmann North American Van Lines. Over more than three decades with the company, he rose to the position of Vice President and earned recognition as the top salesperson in the country. All his achievements are too numerous to mention, but he especially took pride in his many awards for excellence in sales. Beyond his own success, Lawrence took great pride in mentoring other sales professionals, generously sharing his knowledge and experience to help others thrive.
Known affectionately as "Larry Gary" by friends and colleagues alike, he was outgoing and fun-loving—always "on the go." Whether heading to a family gathering or setting off on another travel adventure, Lawrence brought energy and enthusiasm wherever he went. He expressed his love most often through action rather than words but made it increasingly clear over time how deeply he adored his wife Daneen—his partner of 62 years—and those close to him.
Lawrence's passions were many. He was an avid golfer, tennis player, and fitness club regular who also enjoyed fishing trips and coaching sports. His love for travel took him across Europe, the Caribbean, the whole United States, especially the West Coast of California and Oregon where he visited many wineries connected to his son Steve's winemaking endeavors.
In retirement, Lawrence and Daneen made their home in Foxfire—a community in Naples, Florida—where they spent 20 years immersed in golf games, tennis matches, social events, and making friendships that spanned the country. Yet their hearts remained tied to Minnesota; they maintained a second home in Plymouth so they could stay close to family and longtime friends.
Lawrence's legacy lives on through his children: Robert Ryan (Wendy), Kathy Ryan-Yares (Spencer), and Steve Ryan; grandchildren Heather Ryan, Brittney Yares, Tony Yares (Caroline); and great-granddaughter Luna Yares. He is also remembered by his brother Ken Ryan; sister Patricia Ryan Emmings; sisters-in-law Patti (Anderson) McCarty and Judi (Anderson) Moore.
He now joins in rest his beloved wife Daneen; parents Harold and Viola Ryan; and parents-in-law Vernon and Bessie Anderson.
A man of action with a generous heart and boundless energy for life's adventures, Lawrence leaves behind cherished memories that will continue to inspire those who knew him. May his memory bring comfort to all who loved him. A Funeral Mass will be held on December 16, 2025, from 02:00 PM to 03:00 PM at the Church of Saint Anne, 200 Hamel Road, Hamel, MN. A private burial will be held on December 17, 2025 at St. Margaret's Cemetery. Please send any memorial donations to the Alzheimer's Association.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Lawrence, please visit our floral store.
Maple Grove, Minnesota - Lawrence Gary "Larry Gary" Ryan, age 89, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on November 20, 2025, in Maple Grove, Minnesota. A spirited and devoted family man, Lawrence lived a full and vibrant life marked by dedication to his loved ones, professional excellence, and a passion for adventure.
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Published on December 7, 2025
Tuesday, December 16, 2025
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
In Memory of Lawrence Gary Ryan