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Phoenicia Firefighter Michael 'Mike' Ryan Dies

Michael “Mike” Ryan, a retired Kingston police officer and member of the Phoenicia Fire Department, died Saturday, Dec. 13, while responding to an injured hiker in Shandaken, Kingston and Ulster County police announced.

Michael "Mike" Ryan

Michael "Mike" Ryan

Photo Credit: Kingston PD
Mike Ryan

Mike Ryan

Photo Credit: Kingston PD

Ryan dedicated his life to public service, beginning his career with the Ulster County Sheriff’s Office before being hired by the City of Kingston Police Department in March 1996, according to the release. He served 25 years with the department and was a highly respected member of the Emergency Services Unit, where he rose to the role of Team Leader.

“During his 25 years with KPD, Mike was a highly respected and dedicated member of the Emergency Services Unit, where he rose to the role of Team Leader,” police said. “He played an integral role in tactical operations and training, including combat medical training, defensive tactics, and firearms instruction—not only for the Kingston Police Department, but throughout the region as a member of the Ulster County Law Enforcement Training Group.”

In addition to his tactical work, Ryan was a longtime member of the Kingston Police Department Honor Guard, representing the agency at ceremonies, parades, and formal functions, according to police.

Ryan also served in the United States Air Force, police said.

After retiring from the Kingston Police Department in March 2021, Ryan continued working in law enforcement as a trainer with the Town of Ulster Police Department, a role he held until his death.

“Officer Ryan held himself to the highest professional standards and truly dedicated his life to public service,” the department said. “His loss will be felt deeply across our entire region, as he touched countless lives through his leadership, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to others.”

Police asked the community to keep Ryan’s loved ones in mind.

“Please keep Mike’s family, friends, and coworkers in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time,” the release said.

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