Veteran, Firefighter and Radio Station Co-Founder Remembered as Proud Gay Man

The obituary of Edward Thomas Ryan, published in The Times Union of Albany, N.Y., sheds light on the remarkable life of a Vietnam War veteran, retired firefighter, and co-founder of a radio station. Ryan's personal note at the end revealed his lifelong identity as a gay man, adding a poignant and personal touch to his life story.

Edward Thomas Ryan's obituary, published in The Times Union of Albany, N.Y., on June 8, contained notable details about his life and service. Ryan, who passed away on June 1 at the age of 85, was described as a Vietnam War veteran and a retired firefighter from Rensselaer, N.Y. He was also recognized as a co-founder of a radio station based in Albany.

At the end of the obituary, Ryan included a personal note revealing that he had been gay throughout his life. This message highlighted his experiences from grade school through to his later years. This specific detail added a unique personal dimension to his life story.