Brenda Ryan

Brenda Ann Ryan, 57, of Central Lake, passed away January 6, 2011 at Northern Michigan Hospital after a short but brave battle with Leukemia. Brenda was born January 25, 1953 in Norristown, PA to Paul and Marvelle (Toney) DiNofrio, who survive. Brenda moved to Bellaire, MI just prior to 7th grade. She lived most of her adult life in Bellaire, moving to Central Lake in 2004. Brenda was a Head Start Teacher for many years and this is where "Miss Brenda" became the favorite among her students. On April 20, 1990 she married Terrence Ryan. Brenda's greatest joys in life were her children, grandchildren and her love for God. She is her nieces and nephews favorite aunt and will be greatly missed by all who knew her smiling face. Brenda is survived by her husband Terry, five wonderful children: Clifford (Heather) Willson of Central Lake, Heather (Scott) Mills of Cheboygan, John Paul Willson of Central Lake, Travis (Cathy) Willson of Kalkaska and David Ryan of Grand Rapids. Her sisters Paula Davila of Bellaire, Cynthia (Alan) Hickman of Bellaire and Sandra (Dean) Wade of Kewadin, nine beautiful grandchildren Morgan and Logan Mills, Charlotte and Wyatt Willson, Zoie and Cali Willson, Elliot, Issac and Liam Willson, and many nieces and nephews. Brenda also shared a special relationship with her adopted daughter, Sherry (Tim) Mosher and their children and grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her mother-in-law Kay Ryan and a brother-in-law Jesse Davila. Brenda not only leaves behind a large family, but many friends that she loved dearly. She touched so many lives whether for a moment or a lifetime and we will always have wonderful memories of her. God placed his hands on your shoulders way too soon, Brenda. We will always love and miss you. Written by Sandra Wade. Funeral services will take place Monday, January 10, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. at the Central Lake Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes with Pastor Mark Manzer officiating. Interment will take place in Southern Cemetery, Central Lake Township. Visitation will take place on Sunday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. also at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Children's Leukemia Foundation 5455 Corporate Drive Suite 306 Troy, MI 48098 Please signs Brenda's guestbook at www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com