Ryan Stephen Folland

HIRAM – Ryan Stephen Folland, 48, of Hiram and Saco, passed away peacefully on Aug. 30, 2025, surrounded by his loving family, after a year-long, courageous battle with colon cancer.

Born on Aug. 27, 1977, in Portland, Ryan grew up in South Portland. Some of his fondest childhood memories were of time spent on Peaks Island with his grandparents John and Lorraine Feeney, exploring the shore with his cousins, and time on Casco Bay with his family. From an early age, Ryan learned the value of hard work and dedication to customer service while helping at his family run Folland’s Variety.

An avid hunter and fisherman, Ryan found his greatest joy in sharing these passions with his children, just as his own father had done with him. He treasured teaching them the patience of the hunt, the thrill of the catch, and the peace of time spent together outdoors. Known for saying, “I can teach you a lot, but you will learn more alone,” Ryan encouraged stillness, observation and allowing nature to be the primary guide.

Always ready with a story about his 217-pound buck or the day he hauled in a 41-inch striper, Ryan was a proud member of the Big Buck Club and was known as an expert outdoorsman. His knowledge, patience, and love for the natural world inspired those lucky enough to join him in the woods or on the water.

Ryan was a devoted son, brother, and father. He is survived by the children who lovingly called him Dad, Harrison and Monroe Reeder, Ahmed, Eisa, Aliya and Asiya Siraj; his parents, Steve and Cindy Folland of Saco; his sister, Lindsay Toppen of Saco; beloved nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his faithful dog, Brady, his loyal companion.

It takes a rare kind of man to step into the lives of children and love them without hesitation or condition. Ryan was that kind of man. Though they were not his by blood, he embraced each child with a full and open heart – guiding, protecting and celebrating them as his own. He never sought recognition for devotion; his reward was in their laughter, trust and the bond they shared.

In his final years, Ryan worked as a supervisor at Lowe’s, where he was known for his dedication to excellence and genuine care for customers and coworkers alike. His leadership and friendly nature left a lasting impact on those around him.

Ryan’s life was one of quiet strength, hard work, and a deep love for his children, family, animals and the outdoors. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those he touched and in the countless memories made on lakes, rivers, trails and in the woods where we will always go to feel his presence.

A celebration of Ryan’s life will be held on Oct. 12, 2025, with family and friends invited to share stories and honor his memory.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Hospice of Southern Maine for their compassionate care and support throughout Ryan’s final journey.