Ernesto (Neti) Ramos

Ernesto Ramos, 78, “Neti” of Santa Fe, NM passed away Friday June 16, 2017 at home surrounded by family. Ernesto was born in La Isla, Texas on November 11, 1938 and was a resident of Santa Fe for 42 years. He was preceded in death by his parents Dionicio and Juana Ramos, sister Sebastiana Cordero and his eldest son Ernest Ramos, Jr. He is survived by his wife of 59 years Maria Ramos, and children Andy Ramos, Michael Ramos, Nora (Chris) York, Gina (Greg) Montes, brother Eduardo Ramos, sister Camila Contreras, 14 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren. Ernesto spent his life as an activist advocating for the underrepresented and had an accomplished career in public service. Ernesto began a career in federal service in 1971 with the Corporation for National and Community Service and became State Director in 1981. After retiring in 2007, he worked for New Mexico Aging and Long Term Services until 2016. His tireless dedication changed the direction of senior programming in New Mexico through programs such as AmeriCorps VISTA, RSVP, Foster Grandparents, Senior Corps, and Senior Companions. Known as the godfather of the New Mexico Senior Olympics, he supported its success into his retirement. As President of the National Senior Sports Organization, he served on the US Olympic Committee and fulfilled his dream of attending the Atlanta Games. He received numerous awards and accolades for his service. He supported his children and grandchildren in all their endeavors and always offered unconditional support. Ernesto enjoyed playing, coaching and watching sports, especially the Dallas Cowboys and the UNM Lobos. He often travelled to watch his grandchildren play sports and pursue their interests. He was an exceptional athlete in his own right and was inducted into the El Paso Baseball Hall of Fame in 1993. A Viewing will be held on Thursday, June 22 at 6:30pm at The Rivera Family Funeral Home in the Kiva Chapel of Light (417 East Rodeo Rd, Santa Fe, NM 87505). A Rosary will be recited on Thursday, June 22, 2017 at 7:30p.m. in The Kiva Chapel of Light. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, June 23, 2017 at 10:00am. at The San Isidro Catholic Church (3552 Agua Fria St. Santa Fe, New Mexico 87507) Interment will be on Monday, June 26th, 2017 at Rosario Cemetery at 10:00am. In lieu of flowers or gifts, please make contributions in Ernesto’s name to the New Mexico Senior Olympics: http://nmseniorolympics.org/support-the-nmso/