Robert K. “Hank” Ryan

Robert Kenneth “Hank” Ryan, 94, of Dover, passed away peacefully in his home, surrounded by his loving family on Saturday, November 3, 2018.

Born in New Philadelphia on July 2, 1924, he was the son of the late Paul D. and Elizabeth (Scott) Ryan. Hank joined the United States Army in 1944 and served as a rifleman. Hank served for 18 months with the 255th Infantry Regiment in France, Belgium, and Germany.

He was decorated with the EAME Theater ribbon with one bronze star, the good conduct medal, a purple heart, a victory medal for World War II, and the Army of Occupation medal.

On August 16, 1953, Hank married the former Mona L. Schoelles and the two were blessed with 65 years of marriage. They loved to fish together, and Hank was also a lifelong bowler and golfer. Most importantly, he was his children and grandchildren’s greatest fan. He never missed one of their athletic competitions, games or activities.

Professionally, Hank served as a machinist at the former Warner & Swasey and Gradall prior to his retirement after 38 years of employment.

He will be deeply missed by his wife, Mona, of Dover; his children, Jeff (Norma) Ryan of Dover, Kim (Steve) Badertscher of Marion, and Diana (Steve) Scherer and Shelly (Tim) Fisher, all of Dover; his sister, Iris Pusti of Arizona; his grandchildren, Dana (Jeremiah) Basiletti of Dover, Kristina Polen of Dover, T.J. Badertscher of Marion, Specialist Ryan Badertscher stationed in Hawaii, Amanda (Kyle) Smithey of Columbus, and Austin Fisher of Dover; and his great-grandchildren, Camryn Basiletti, and Christian and Coleson Basiletti. Additionally, he is survived by his nieces and nephews, Lesley (Stan) Shope, Creston (Judy) Summers, Cheryl (Richard) Keeler, and Joy Pusti; and numerous great-nieces and great-nephews.

In addition to his parents, Hank was preceded in death by his father and mother-in-law, Wallace and Agnes Schoelles; infant sister, Ruby Ryan; sister-in-law, Gloria (Jack) Summers; brother-in-law, Nick Pusti; and his nephew, Brad Summers.

A graveside service will be held in Dover Burial Park on Wednesday, November 7, 2018 at 2 PM with Rev. William Haggis officiating. The New Philadelphia VFW Post #1445 and Hank’s grandson, Specialist Ryan Badertscher, will render military honors.

Memorial contributions in Hank’s memory may be directed to Crossroads Hospice, 3743 Boettler Oaks Dr., Suite E, Green, OH 44685 or Grace Lutheran Church, 216 N. Wooster Ave., Dover, OH 44622.