John L. Ramos, 93, of New Bedford passed away Friday October 6, 2023 after a long illness.
Born in New Bedford, the son of the late Luiz B. and Amelia J. (Almeida) Ramos, he lived in New Bedford for most of his life.
John was formerly employed as an illustrator at the Newport Naval War College Graphic Arts Department for 26 years until his retirement.
During the Korean War, he served as a Corporal in the U.S. Marine Corps. Later he returned to school and graduated from the Swain School of Design in 1961. He was a member of the Montford Point Marine Association and the Disabled American Veterans.
In June 2012, the Montford Point Marines were collectively awarded the Congressional Gold Medal at the U.S. Capitol Rotunda. This medal is an award bestowed by the United States Congress. It is Congress's highest expression of national appreciation for distinguished achievements and contributions by individuals or institutions. In November 2022, John was awarded an individual bronze replica of the Congressional Gold Medal for his service by representatives of the Montford Point Marine Association.
He is survived by five children, his loving daughter, Stacey M. Rose, son, John L. Ramos, Jr., son, Russell J. Ramos, daughter, Leslie K. Mercure, and son Matthew A. Ramos; eight grandchildren, Brittney Rose, Kristin Rose, Jordan Ramos, Marlo Ramos, Justin Ramos, Ashlyn Ramos, Cameron Mercure, and Christian Mercure; his special friends, Fred and Elizabeth Orchard, Joseph Geeter, and Colonel Craig Wonson; and many nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his siblings, Lucy Fortes, Albert Ramos, Joseph Ramos, Alves Ramos, Pauline Cruz, Julia Santos, Delia Gomes, and Mary Groebe; and his special nieces and nephew, Brenda Cartwright, Patrice Fortes, and William Santos.
His funeral will be held on Wednesday, October 11, 2023 at 9 AM from the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford, followed by his Funeral Mass at Our Lady of the Assumption Church at 10 AM. Visiting hours will be held on Tuesday, October 10th from 4-7 PM. A family burial service with military honors will be held at the Massachusetts National Cemetery on Thursday. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to the Veterans Transition House, 1297 Purchase St., New Bedford, MA 02740. For online condolence book, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com.