Anita Joy Ryan

Anita Joy Ryan, 89, died Feb. 22, 2026, surrounded by several of her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was born on Oct. 31, 1936, in Grand Island, Nebraska, to Mike and Irene Krohn. She graduated from Grand Island Senior High School in 1954 and attended Midland College, where she began a lifelong career and passion for educating young minds.

She married Jim Ryan on Aug. 3, 1957. They were married for 56 years and were blessed with seven children. They also opened their home to several foster children. The family moved from Grand Island to Littleton, Colorado, in 1977 and became active members of All Souls Catholic Parish and School and their community.

Anita spent her life shaping young hearts and minds, leaving a lasting impression on generations of students. Passionate about teaching young children, she was the driving force behind developing the Wee Spirits Preschool at All Souls. She later taught preschool at Blessed Sacrament and St. Thomas More parishes, retiring in May 2024 at age 87.

Anita was first and foremost a daughter of God and deeply devoted to the Blessed Virgin Mary. There was nothing she enjoyed more than teaching children about Jesus and sharing her faith with her family and friends. Her legacy lives on through her family, friends and the countless wee spirits whose hearts and minds she touched during her years of devoted teaching, mentoring, and loving. She leaves an empty seat at countless Bible study tables and prayer circles and will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

Preceded in death by her parents; her husband; her grandson, Max; and her great-granddaughter, Reaghan, Anita is survived by her brother, Robert Krohn; her children, Mike (Jerra), Maureen (Bill), Ann (Lonny), Ellen (Scott), KaCee (Stacey), Molly Ryan KillsEnemy and Meaghan (Scooter); 23 grandchildren, Sean, Kelcey, Madelyn, Shannen, Jesse, Willie, Samantha, Kaleigh, Ali, Luke, Hank, Jake, Josh, Joe, Kelly, Ryan, Kateri, Napayshni, Waki, Natika, Ryleigh, Jylian and Ranger; and 28 great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, Anita and the family respectfully suggest donations to the St Vincent de Paul Society or All Souls Food Bank.  Links provided.

St. Vincent De Paul Society

All Souls Catholic Church & Food Bank