He served in the Marine Corps and later graduated from St. Bonaventure University and Syracuse Law School.
[2] Ryan was first appointed mayor in 1974 after the Democratic Party won a majority of seats on the city council.
This system had been in place since 1928 as a result of government reforms championed by the late industrial magnate George Eastman.
These included a new convention center, parks along the Genesee riverfront, and a new baseball stadium, which became Frontier Field.
[1] Despite his strong interest in city affairs and long tenure in office, Ryan was known for shyness and avoided public speeches or interviews.