New York Pallet Industry Businessman Passes Away
Longtime president and owner of McIntosh Box and Pallet, Thomas (Tom) Ryan, 79, passed away October 8th at his home. He began his career at McIntosh in 1977 and bought the company from Ken McIntosh. With a dogged pursuit of new sales, he grew the company and served the industry as a member of the board of the National Wooden Pallet and Container Association. Tom’s refrain “This is the land of opportunity!” spoke to both to his optimism and love of our nation. After Tom retired from McIntosh, he continued to play a huge role in the company behind the scenes. Tom was diagnosed with ALS earlier this year.
Rich Huftalen of McIntosh Box, said, “Tom’s principled leadership has been foundational to who we are as a company today. A role model not just as a business leader, but a husband, father and leader in his community and church, Tom’s loss will leave a tremendous void.”
The flag in front of the company’s Syracuse plant is at half-mast in honor of Tom’s passing. The East Syracuse office where Tom got his start has been re-dedicated in his honor.
Huftalen personally added, “Tom has played a huge role in my life, and I am forever grateful for the opportunities he created for me and for all he has taught me in business and in life. He had the gift of tremendous faith that has helped us struggle through these difficult months. We lost a great man today. His legacy will endure.”
Tom grew up in Cazenovia, New York and received a BS in Mathematics from LeMoyne College in 1963. Tom served as a supply corps officer in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War. He was active in local sports organizations and clubs. He served as the director of the RBI Youth Baseball Program in Syracuse.
Devoted to his family, Tom is survived by his wife of 36 years, Mary Platz Ryan; two daughters, Kara (Eric) Vinton of Denver, CO and Katie (Nick) Livesay of Brunswick, ME; two step-children, Tracy Rogers of Donaghadee, No. Ireland and Eric (Colleen) Dahlin of Chittenango; nine grandchildren, Sawyer and Fisher Vinton, Ryan, Lauren, Keira Livesay, Kaylee and Noah Rogers, and Mekenzie and Luke Dahlin; brothers, William and Paul; sisters, Rosemary Park and Veronica Huftalen; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Edward and Helen Ryan; and a brother, Edward.
The funeral was held on October 12th following a mass service. To share condolences with the Ryan family, visit the virtual guest book at https://www.scheppfamily.com/memorials/thomas-ryan/4353329/index.php
