Judge Robert J. Ryan
Judge Robert J. Ryan, 96, a lifelong resident of the Brainerd Lakes Area, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at Essentia Health – St. Joseph’s Medical Center in Brainerd.
The family will honor Bob’s life with a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at St. Francis Catholic Church in Brainerd. Friends are invited to gather one hour prior to Mass and to remain for a luncheon following the service. Interment with Military Honors will take place at Evergreen Cemetery in Brainerd.
Bob was born on February 7, 1930, in Brainerd, the son of Clem and Helen (née McCarthy) Ryan. He grew up in the close-knit community he would faithfully serve throughout his life, attending St. Francis of the Lakes School and graduating from St. John’s Preparatory School. He continued his education at St. John’s University in Collegeville and attended the Georgetown University School of Foreign Service, reflecting an early interest in public service and global affairs.
During the Korean War, Bob proudly served his country as a fighter pilot in the United States Marine Corps for four years. His military service was a source of great pride and remained an important part of his identity throughout his life.
Following his service, Bob returned home and pursued his legal education, earning his Juris Doctor degree. He joined his father in the practice of law at Ryan, Ryan and Ebert, where he built a respected career grounded in integrity, diligence, and fairness. In 1980, he was elected Judge of the District Court, a role he held with distinction until his retirement in December 1992. His commitment to justice and his thoughtful approach to the law left a lasting impact on the community he served.
While Bob’s professional accomplishments were significant, his family was the true center of his life. In 1954, he married Margaret R. Leckband. Together they built a loving home and were blessed with three children: Julie, John, and Kitty; eight grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren. Bob cherished time spent with his family, whether at home in Minnesota or during the many winters he and Margaret enjoyed in Fort Myers, Florida.
Bob was deeply involved in both his profession and his community. He was active in the County, District, State, and U.S. Bar Associations and was a dedicated member of St. Francis Catholic Church as well as a proud member of the Knights of Columbus, attaining the Fourth Degree. He also belonged to the Elks Lodge, the American Legion, and the Marine Corps League. Through these organizations, he formed enduring friendships and continued his lifelong commitment to service.
Judge Ryan will be remembered for his steady character, his devotion to family and faith, his distinguished public service, and his unwavering love for the Brainerd Lakes Area. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished and the community he served so faithfully.
He will be missed by his wife of 72 years, Maggie; children, Julie (Scott) Millam, John (Sue) Ryan, and Kitty (Glen) Young; eight grandchildren; and ten great-grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to St. Francis School.