Sunrise: September 18, 1942 — Sunset: September 28, 2025

Joseph “Joe” Ramos, affectionately known as “Joey” by our New York family, passed away on September 28, 2025, in Kansas City, Missouri, at the age of 83. Born on September 18, 1942, in Albany, New York, Joe lived a life defined by faith, courage, and devotion to family.

Joe graduated from Albany High School, received a Bachelor’s of Arts in Psychology from Rockhurst University, Kansas City, Missouri. Studied for his Master’s in Business Administration and spent his career in Credit Management at various companies in the Metropolitan area. Joe also volunteered in his local community for organizations such as Hospice.

Joe also was part of the Few, The Proud, a Veteran of the United States Marine Corps. He honorably served his country for over seven years. During his service, he received two Good Conduct Medals, the National Defense Service Medal, the Pistol Marksman Badge, and the Rifle Sharpshooter Badge — just a small reflection of his discipline, skill, and commitment to always doing the right thing. His time in the Marine Corps helped to shape the man he became — strong, steadfast, and dedicated to integrity.

Joe has always walked with the Lord his entire life, and his faith was his foundation. After every prayer, he would remind his family, “The circle represents family, unity, and love, and no matter where we go in the world, the circle never breaks.” His words and his example continue to hold that circle together.

Joe was also known for his humor and love of laughter — never missing a chance to lighten the moment with one of his corny dad jokes. And whenever his kids said, “But Dad, that’s not fair,” Joe would assertively say, “No one ever said life would be fair.” His mix of truth, humor, and heart made that twinkle in his eyes unforgettable. 

Joe leaves to mourn his children, Heather Ramos and Desmond Ramos; and his sister, Josephine Luft.

His nieces Martha (Barry) MacMullen, Jacquelyn Donovan Unser, Maria (Gary) Hallenbeck, Ruth E. Smith, Victoria DiLucente, Renee (Jay) Schmidt, Jennifer (Peter) Lento, and Corinne Masino; grandchildren Ashley Ramos (Algernon Robinson), Steven Templeton, Jr. (Eva), Jamie Koho, Cooper Ramos, and Brooklyn Ramos; and great-grandchildren Alijah Robinson, Kameron Templeton, Lennox Templeton, and Nila Koho. Not to mention, Shannon Higgins, and a host of Great Nieces and Nephews.

He was also lovingly blessed with bonus family , Brad (Kristen) Willits, Tina (Joel) Huet, and Kristin (Kevin) Richardson, and bonus grandchildren AJ Huet,  Jake Huet, Sam Huet, McKenzie Willits, Mason Richardson, and Maxwell Richardson, who loved “Papa Joe” dearly.

Joe also leaves to mourn his lifetime partner, Susan Patton, and special friend, Janet Miller. He was loved by so many throughout his lifetime, far too many to name individually, each holding a special place and connection in his life.

He was preceded in death by his father, John Ramos; mother, Mary Testa; his sisters Yolanda Noschese, Carmella Smith, and Marianna Donovan. His niece ,Marilyn Wright and nephew Mark J. Smith.

Though he has left this world, Joe’s faith, love, and wisdom live on in every story told, every prayer shared, and in the unbroken circle of his family.

A private family Celebration of Life will be held on October 12, 2025. In lieu of flowers, please make a charitable donation to Mother’s Refuge in Joe’s memory to shelter and educate homeless, pregnant and parenting young women with support and skills that empower them to make successful life decisions for themselves and their babies. Mothersrefuge.org

“The woods are lovely, dark and deep, But I have promises to keep,   And miles to go before I sleep, And miles to go before I sleep.”- Robert Frost