It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Joe Ramos, known to many as Jose Sigue Ramos Jr., on January 2nd 2024. Joe's journey, which began on November 9, 1941, in Stamford, Connecticut, was one of unwavering dedication, service to his country, and boundless love for his family and community.
Born to Jose Sigue Ramos Sr. and Vernetta Miller Ramos, Joe's early years were marked by a thirst for knowledge and a commitment to excellence. He attended St. John's Catholic Elementary School in Stamford before graduating from Salesian High School in New Rochelle, NY, in 1959. Eager to further his education, Joe ventured to Cincinnati, Ohio, where he attended Xavier University from 1959 to 1963, earning a Bachelor's degree in Political Science. His time at Xavier also saw him complete the Reserve Officer Training Program for the Air Force, a testament to his sense of duty and patriotism.
In 1964, Joe answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the US Air Force. Following basic training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant. Throughout his military career, Joe exemplified courage and integrity, serving with honor at various assignments, including Lowry Air Force Base in Denver, Colorado, where he completed the Air Intelligence Officer Course in 1965.
It was during his time in Denver that Joe's life took a beautiful turn when he met his future wife, Helen Kittlesen, R.N. Their love story endured despite the challenges of military life, culminating in a cherished union.
In the spring of 1967, Joe was deployed to Da Nang Air Force Base in Vietnam and later to Dong Ha, a marine base near the DMZ. Despite the dangers of war, Joe and Helen found moments of joy, including a brief honeymoon in Hawaii in December of 1966. Their enduring love sustained them through the trials of separation, and in the spring of 1967, they were joyfully reunited at March Air Force Base.
Joe's military service concluded at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base in North Carolina, where he was honorably discharged as Captain Ramos in June of 1968. He continued his pursuit of knowledge, earning a Master's Degree in Political Science from Georgetown University Graduate School in 1969.
In 1970, Joe and Helen returned to Riverside, CA, where Joe embarked on a distinguished career in law and public service. From his tenure as a probation officer for Riverside County to his years as a Deputy District Attorney, Joe was known for his unwavering dedication to justice and the betterment of his community.
Even in retirement, Joe's commitment to service never wavered. He volunteered as a Park Ranger in Orange County, a member of the Sheriff's Department in San Bernardino County, and an active participant in Grand Terrace's Emergency Ops Department and CERT Program.
Joe's love for learning never faded, as evidenced by his pursuit of a Juris Doctorate from La Verne College of Law, which he earned in May 1976. His passion for education, coupled with his devotion to his family, friends, and community, defined his legacy.
In his final years, Joe found solace and joy in the company of his beloved wife, Helen, their two sons, Derek and Mark Ramos, and their three grandchildren, Chase, Lola, and Giada Ramos. His work ethic, thirst for knowledge, and zest for life will forever be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Joe Ramos leaves behind a legacy of service, compassion, and love that will continue to inspire generations to come. Though he may be gone, his spirit lives on in the countless lives he touched and the enduring impact he made on our world.
As we mourn the loss of a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, we take comfort in knowing that Joe's memory will forever be cherished in our hearts. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.