Connie Ryan has always been dedicated to serving his community. 

After graduating high school, Connie proudly served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1956-1959. He then attended Milton College before receiving his mortuary science degree from the then-named Wisconsin Institute of Mortuary Science in Milwaukee, WI in 1965. On December 16th, 1966, he opened Ryan Funeral Home (at 5:30PM sharp, he says) in Madison. So began the Ryan Funeral Homes legacy that has continued on for several generations and branched out to three additional locations in the greater Madison area. 

Connie has been with the WFDA for as long as his career, and has become a real staple within the association. He was past president for the term 1989-1990, and has always been an active member. He especially loves how the WFDA continuously fights for the rights of funeral directors across the state. He notes how those newer in the industry may not even realize the benefits they’ve received thanks to WFDA. 

Connie has been involved in several other organizations, including serving as past president of the TIP Club and past president of the Northeast Optimist Club. Additionally, he spends as much time as possible doing anything outdoors. He loves to hunt, fish, ice fish, and spend time with family.