Joseph William Ryan Jr.

Our beloved Chip Ryan passed away on May 14, 2026 surrounded by his family and good friends at Arnot Ogden Medical Center. Chip was a loving father, grandfather, brother, and uncle. As a friend and mentor, he touched generations of those who love the outdoors. He was an avid fisherman, hunter, and golfer.

Chip was born in Elmira, NY on June 23, 1953, the son of Joseph William Ryan, Sr and Rita Gresko Ryan. He grew up in Hammondsport where he developed a lifelong love for Keuka Lake. He graduated from Hammondsport Central School in 1971 and attended Corning Community College. His work-life was in sales, first at Hudson Shoe Company in Corning, then insurance sales in Columbus, Ohio, and as a credit negotiator at CCS IN Elmira.

Chip's last position was his dream job as a salesperson and fishing guide at Nushagak River Fishing Lodge in Bristol Bay, Alaska. It remained the highlight of his life in the outdoors.

Chip will be best remembered by all those he introduced to the outdoors as he taught them fishing and hunting skills, along with the respect for and love of nature. He is considered an invaluable friend and mentor to generations of families throughout the Finger Lakes area. Many considered him a father or grandfather and he was called "Chippie" by the many young people he helped grow into responsible adults who love the outdoors.

One of Chip's many talents included his favorite activity of storytelling. He had endless adventures to share and loved to relay them in detail to all who would listen. Most of the stories were true.

He is predeceased by his parents, Joseph and Rita Ryan.

He is survived by his cherished son: Joseph William Ryan, III (Tripp) and grandson Carter Joseph Ryan; Tripp's significant other Blair Cundy and her children; sisters Mary Bernadette Ryan; and Connie Ryan and her son Anthony Ashley; cousins J. Scott Ryan and Kim Ryan Clark; and more, dear cousins county-wide. Chip also leaves behind an immeasurable number of friends whom he positively influenced and considered family.

Family and friends are invited to McInerny Funeral Home, 502 W. Water St. Elmira, NY for calling hours and a prayer service on Thursday, May 21st, 2026 from 4 - 6 p.m.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Tanglewood Nature Center and Museum or the National Wildlife Federation.

The family wishes to thank all of the ED staff, ICU staff, and medical specialists at Arnot Ogden Medical Center for their exceptional and compassionate care of Chip and our whole family.