Wally Ryan
ally Ryan, nineteenth president of the Illinois District, passed away in the early hours of Saturday, August 9, 2014.
Wally joined the Barbershop Harmony Society in his early 20’s shortly after his discharge from the Navy, and soon was actively involved in in his local Decatur chapter as well as quartetting. One of his early quartets was the Kounter Kords and was followed by his popular show quartet, the Yachtsmen.
Wally became the director of the Decatur chapter chorus in 1964 and served continuously until 1970, and then again briefly in 1985 and 1986. He also became involved in his chapter’s administration, as well as a teacher of the barbershop craft to both men’s and women’s organization’s. He also directed the local Decatur Sweet Adelines chorus.
The Yachtsmen: (L-R) Eddie Spencer, Wally Ryan, Gene Bafford, Bill McNichols
Wally worked for the A.E. Staley Food Starch Company in Decatur for 17 years before starting his own business, the Ryan Equipment and Supply Food Service and Concessions company which he ran until his retirement.
Wally married Helen, an avid Sweet Adeline and quartette singer, and together they raised a son, Jeff and a daughter, Jennifer.
Wally spent his later barbershop years serving his chapter and the Illinois District. Wally served as the Decatur chapter president before being elected the district Central Division Vice President in 1966. He was appointed district Executive Vice President (1968-69), and then served as District president in 1970 and 1971.
In 2008 Wally was awarded our district’s highest honor when he was presented the Award for Barbershop Excellence (ABE).
A service celebrating Wally’s life will be held at the Central Christian Church in Decatur on Saturday, August 16, at 11:00 AM. The church is located in Decatur at 650 W. William Street.
