Frances Therese Ryan, 82, of Custer passed away Saturday, December 19, 2009, at her home. She was born on October 3, 1927, in Nisland. The family moved to Rapid City where she attended Immaculate Conception Cathedral elementary and high schools. She graduated in 1945 and continued her education at St. John's Hospital School of Nursing. She served as a registered nurse in North and South Dakota.

On May 7, 1949, she married Lynus (Pat) Ryan. They raised nine children and the family lived in Nebraska, North Dakota and now resides in Custer. Therese was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary, VFW Auxiliary, and Catholic Daughters of America. She helped to start "Meals on Wheels" for Langdon, ND, and continued to serve the program in Custer. She also participated in special events for Custer's Senior Center.

Therese loved to travel and visited family and friends coast to coast. She enjoyed fishing and camping trips, gardening, and especially loved singing in her parish choirs.

Her family includes her husband, Lynus (Pat) Ryan; sons, Thomas Ryan Williston, ND; D. Edward Ryan (Kristy) Ft. Payne, AL; Leo Ryan (Lynnette) Jamestown, ND; daughters, Cecilia Ryan (Jim) Glendale, AZ; Mary Fran Ryan Mtn. View, CA; Jean Doherty (Kevin) Franklin, WI; Kathleen Ryan Custer, SD; Ellen Ryan (Kari) Boulder, CO; Susan Bailey (Joe) W. Fargo, ND. She had 16 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be held at 7:00 p.m., Tuesday, December 22, 2009 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Custer. Services will be at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, December 23, 2009 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Custer. The burial will be at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 23, 2009 at Black Hills National Cemetery. The family suggests memorials to the Elevator Fund for handicapped accessibility at Custer VFW.

Arrangements have been placed in the care of McColley's Chapel of the Hills in Custer. Written condolences can be made at www.mccolleyschapels.com.