GUILDERLAND — Peter J. Ryan — a loving husband, father, brother, uncle, and friend — was also a lawyer committed to public service.

He died on Monday, Jan. 26, 2026. He was 83.

“Born in Canastota, New York, Peter spent his early years on his uncle’s dairy farm before moving to Albany to attend Albany College of Pharmacy,” he family wrote in a tribute. “It was there that he met his beloved wife of 59 years, Karen.

“After several years working as a pharmacist, Peter followed his passion for learning and earned his law degree from Albany Law School. He went on to a rewarding career spanning three decades as an attorney with the New York State Office of Court Administration, exemplifying a lifelong commitment to public service.

“An avid reader and lifelong learner, Peter pursued a broad and meaningful education through courses he continued to take throughout his adult life. He also earned his private pilot’s license and was active in the Civil Air Patrol, further reflecting his dedication to serving his community.

“Peter had a deep love of jazz and took great joy in attending the Saratoga Jazz Festival, Jazz on Jay, jazz cruises, and countless concerts over the years.

“Peter’s intelligence, wit, humility, kindness, and integrity enriched the lives of all who were fortunate to know him. We take comfort in knowing he is now reunited with his loving parents, Joe and Ella Ryan, and his cherished siblings, Kathleen and Jerry.”

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His memory lives on through his devoted and loving family: wife Karen; son Michael (Suzanne Duke); daughter Kristine (Mark Bodie); niece Amy Carpenter-Holmes (Arthur); brothers-in-law Kenneth Carpenter, Br. Carl Malacalza, and Joseph Malacalza (Karen); nieces Diana and Lia; great nephews Nathan and Kevin; and great niece Evelyn.

Public visitation will be held Thursday, Jan. 29, from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at the Knight’s Chapel of Christ the King Church at 20 Sumter Ave. in Guilderland. A funeral Mass will immediately follow, commencing at 10:30 a.m. in the main church of Christ the King. A private interment will be held at St. Agnes Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Doctors Without Borders or to the charity of your choice.