Mr. Juan S. Ramos

UTICA - Mr. Juan S. Ramos, age 80, passed peacefully into the Lord’s arms on Sunday, March 4, 2018 at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center with his loving family by his side. Born in Ponce, Puerto Rico on February 8, 1938, Juan was the son of the late Juan Ramos and Juanita (Vargas) Ramos. A blessing that made his life complete was his relationship with Albina Baez Ramos. They cared for one another and shared the lives of their eight children. Although they were separated, they had a never-ending love and devotion for each other that always held their hearts together. Juan was a laborer in the fields of Puerto Rico, and he was also a self-taught guitarist. He worked endlessly to improve his talents and he succeeded. He was a member of many musical groups and bands, performing with passion the “quatro” and harmonica. He utilized his expertise as a musician to provide for his family, traveling from Puerto Rico to New York State to play at various events. Juan had an outgoing personality whether heard by sound effects, in his jokes, or in his finger-pointing humorous gestures. The love that he had for his family and friends was felt in his hugs. He was a respected man, humble, and down-to-earth. He gave even when he didn’t have the means to give. He was a good “Papi” and taught his loved ones to be strong and honor the surname of Ramos with dignity and love for one another. Holidays were special and everyone was always gathered together. His beloved Albina cooked for him for many years until the very end, especially his favorite, pasteles. Juan enjoyed fishing since it brought him a sense of relaxation and peace of mind, but when he fished with his sons, he could become a bit competitive! His children made him so proud and his grandchildren and great-grandchildren put a smile on his face. He was all about love. The little things that made him unique —- his peace sign, his broken English, and his body language, are now priceless treasures to his loved ones. Juan was of the Catholic faith and followed the teachings of the Lord. He was blessed with a beautiful gift —- a family with musical talents! He played the 12-string guitar with Hector, the congas with Edwin, the maracas with Wilson and Jorge, the guido with Sonia and Jorge, and he accompanied Alicia and Sonia in singing folksongs. His life was in tune with his Lord and his loved ones. Juan is survived by his cherished “Bina”; his children and their loves, Hector Ramos, Edwin Ramos, Wilson Ramos, Juan Ramos, Sonia Ramos Diaz, Alicia Ramos, Jose Ramos, and Jorge Ramos. He also cherished the memory of his infant son. He also leaves his grandchildren who were such an important part of his life, and he held close to his heart the memory of his granddaughter Christina Maria Rivera who passed away on March 6, 1995. His legacy will also carry on through his numerous great-grandchildren who will remember him through stories and photographs. He will be remembered by his many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins. Back in the day, he was beloved by many friends. He was predeceased by several siblings. Juan will be laid to rest beside his best buddy, Miguel Angel Santiago. Visitation will be held Saturday afternoon from 2:00-4:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Juan’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Saturday at 4:00 at the funeral home immediately upon conclusion of visitation with Fr. Abe Esper officiating the ceremony. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Mr. Juan S. Ramos

February 8, 1938 - March 4, 2018