Tony Ryan

Beloved Retired Denver Police Lieutenant, R. A. (Tony) Ryan of Lakewood CO passed away quietly on Thursday, July 2, 2026, while his wife held his hand. Born on May 8, 1945 in Boston, MA, to Elizabeth A. Ryan, Tony lived a life defined by honor, duty, and a deep love for people and his community

Tony was a proud and dedicated member of the Denver Police Department for 36 years. Starting his career in April of 1967, he served with distinction, moving through the ranks to become a Lieutenant. Although he briefly considered applying to become a Captain, his true love was being on the street.

Throughout his distinguished career Tony was known for his bravery, having been awarded a Purple Heart after receiving a near fatal wound on April 1, 1969, while single-handedly thwarting a bank robbery in progress. He was known for his calm demeanor which led his superiors to place him in charge of many operations. One of his most treasured assignments was the Pope St. John Paul II visit to the Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception on August 14, 1993, during the World Youth Day celebrations, where tens of thousands of people attended. He was known for his decisive, inspirational leadership and his willingness to place himself in harm’s way as evidenced by his response during the Columbine High School shooting, a day that changed his life forever. His official commendation states that all on the scene believe he contributed directly to a quick ending of the rampage. Tony was known for his ability to bridge the gap between the police and community members. He was most proud of the community awards and recognitions he received throughout his career. One neighborhood petitioned the Denver Police Department to have him returned to their district after he was transferred out.

Beyond the badge, Tony was a passionate, concerned community member. He became a Free Mason and then a Shriner, serving by transporting children to the Burn Center in the Twin Cities. He also went on to be a spokesperson for LEAP (Law Enforcement Against Prohibition) and spent many years on their national board. He was dedicated to his political party as well, serving on both the state and national level boards, volunteering for outreach events, and running for office.

There were many passions in Tony’s life. Tony loved buses since childhood, and road trips were his favorite way to travel. He spent many of his retirement years driving bus tours and sharing his love of travel with others. He also had a passion for cars, owning many makes and models throughout the years. The old classics with huge tail fins were his favorites. Later in retirement, he loved bike riding with his friends in Arizona. Several times a week, they would ride for miles, stop for coffee and then head back home. More than anything, Tony loved to sing and had a beautiful voice. Whether singing karaoke at a party or belting out a few lines out of the blue, singing brought him joy. Tony was known around Willowbrook Place for his constant singing and, when he didn’t know the words, his whistling. Saying the first line of a song as you walked by was enough to get him singing!

People who knew him well and just in passing, knew beyond a doubt that he was (as Tony, himself, would say) quite loquacious. He could strike up a conversation with anyone and in his later years, he did so with everyone.

Tony had a quick wit, a generous spirit, and an extraordinary ability to make everyone around him feel safe and valued.

Tony is survived by loving wife BetteRose Ryan; his three daughters, Kelli Ryan (Lisa Hoskins), Shannon Nieb (Kris Nieb), Erin O'Dougherty; two sons Brandon Ryan, Sean Shelley (Kelly Shelley); and ten cherished grandchildren, Sebastian Nieb, Beckett Nieb, Peyton O'Dougherty, Alyson O'Dougherty, Noah O'Dougherty, Ashlyn Ryan, Ava Ryan, Hunter Shelley, Evan Shelley, and Sean Shelley.

Tony is also survived by countless friends, and a grateful brotherhood in blue.

A celebration of Tony Ryan’s life will be held on September 19, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Newcomer Denver-West, 901 S. Sheridan Blvd, Lakewood CO. Following there will be a reception at family home.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Tony’s name to Shriners Children Hospital or to the Denver Police Museum.