Juan Ramos, of Chelsea, Michigan, passed away peacefully on July 26, 2022 surrounded by his family. He was 83.
Born in Whiteface, Texas, on July 1, 1939, Juan was one of 13 children born to Emigdio and Juana Ramos. A graduate of Texas Tech University and Thunderbird School of Global Management, Juan moved to Michigan in 1965 to work at Ford Motor Co. (Ford Tractor division), where he worked until 1998. He was also a reservist in the Army. In Michigan, he met his wife, Kathleen, whom he married on April 27, 1968. Together they had three children.
Juan was an instant friend to everyone he met and enjoyed striking up conversations and truly getting to know people of all walks of life. A man of integrity and warmth, he was skilled at and passionate about bringing people together. Another of Juan’s passions was gardening. Juan was a lifelong learner, creative thinker, and entrepreneur. One of his favorite pastimes was doing arts and crafts with his beloved grandchildren.
He owned several businesses over the years and also worked as a Spanish teacher and Spanish medical interpreter. Even outside of a formal classroom, he enjoyed teaching Spanish to anyone and everyone. Juan was a notable baseball player, playing ball for over 60 years, including for Ford Tractor teams and Lutheran church teams. He lovingly gave his time to his church, helping to lead men’s breakfasts and participating in Bible study.
Juan is survived by his wife of 54 years, Kathleen; their three children, Philip Ramos (Ileana), Alex Ramos (Elizabeth), and Katie Rogers (Nick); five grandchildren, Jonah, Mia, Flora, Rose, and Leo; and many other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and two siblings.
A memorial service for Juan will be held on Saturday, September 24, 2022 at Peace Lutheran Church in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Visitation begins at 10:00 a.m., with the service at 11:00 a.m. A luncheon will follow; all are welcome to attend.
Memorial contributions can be made to Peace Lutheran Church, 8260 Jackson Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48103, where Juan was an active member in many ministries.
Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.
