Carol Jean Koana Ryan's Obituary
Carol Jean Koana Ryan, age 81, of Hawaiʻi, passed away peacefully on December 23, 2025. She was born on December 1, 1944, in Honolulu, Hawaiʻi. Carol was raised in Kalihi and graduated from Farrington High School in 1962.
Following graduation, Carol moved to Missouri, where she met the love of her life, Dennis Daniel Irvin Ryan. They were married on July 20, 1965, and together built a life rooted in faith, family, and unconditional love.
Carol was deeply devoted to her Catholic faith and was actively involved in Worldwide Marriage Encounter and the Cursillo Movement of the Asian-Pacific. Through her service, she traveled internationally, sharing faith and fellowship wherever she went. She worked as an Activities Coordinator at Kuakini Adult Daycare and paddled for over 20 years with Ka Moʻi Canoe Club and Kāneʻohe Canoe Club. Carol loved singing karaoke, playing ʻukulele, and bringing music and laughter to every gathering.
Above all, Carol was the heart and backbone of her family. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Dennis Daniel Irvin Ryan, and her son, Dennis Daniel Kalani Ryan.
She is survived by her children, Daniel Ryan, Enrique Ryan, and Mercy Laquihon; 13 grandchildren; and 19 great-grandchildren.
Services
Services will be held on January 30 at Sacred Hearts Church in Waiʻanae, with visitation beginning at 9:00 a.m.
Burial will follow at 3:00 p.m. at Valley of the Temples, Kāneʻohe.
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