Eliseo Ramos

Eliseo Ramos (lovingly known as Chichi by most, Papi by some), beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle, brother-in-law, and friend, peacefully departed this world on April 17, 2026, at the age of 78. Born on June 25, 1947, in the vibrant town of Rio Grande, Puerto Rico, Eliseo's life was a rich tapestry woven with love, kindness, humor, and an indomitable spirit. Eliseo moved to New Haven at the age of 14 and remained there until his golden retirement years. Post-retirement, he returned to Puerto Rico and settled in Fajardo, where he started his next adventure in life, making new friends and discovering his love of farming through the revival of his mother's home and land.

Eliseo was the cherished son of Carmen Meléndez and Pedro Ramos, who instilled in him the values of generosity and compassion. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Matilde, and brother Pedro, carrying the many memories made with them in his heart throughout his life. Pedro and him had a profound and unbreakable bond that endured no matter where life took them. Every core memory from childhood - swimming in rivers - through adulthood - attending trovadores puertorriqueños - included his best friend, Pedro. 

For over four decades, Eliseo dedicated himself to his career at United Technologies (previously known as Pratt and Whitney), where his colleagues knew him as a smart, diligent, and committed worker. He was recognized at one point with an award for a cost-saving, product improvement idea he presented to the company. His work ethic and loyalty were a testament to his character, leaving an immense mark on those who had the privilege of working with him.

A poet at heart and an avid reader, Eliseo had a deep love for and mastery of history and politics. His vast knowledge and thoughtful perspectives made conversations with him quite impassioned - he was always prepared for a debate, especially with his two brothers. Every week featured at least one casual get together that turned into an intense philosophical or political discussion, that always ended with a hug and kiss, and see you soon. 

He was also a creative soul, who firmly believed in the power of words and often found solace and excitement in writing and reciting poetry, capturing the beauty and complexity of life as evidenced in the innumerable notebooks he left behind - a written legacy of his life, loves, political, and moral beliefs. While living in Puerto Rico, he had the opportunity to share his literature with the world, reciting his poetry for a local radio station. Eliseo's generosity knew no bounds - he was known by all for his beautiful smile and his willingness to help anyone in need. No request for help went unanswered as money held no value to him. Everyone who knew him, knew him to be someone you could depend on - including the protestors he joined after Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated and the community who protected him while he was on the run.

When he wasn't reading, writing, lending a helping hand, or winning political debates, Eliseo enjoyed betting on the races at Sports Haven and getting to know his local bartenders wherever he lived - it was always 5 p.m. somewhere for him, and he insisted on never drinking anything other than beer. He considered himself a pool shark, one of the best swimmers out there, and quite an impressive skater. 

He is survived by his devoted daughters, Omayra and her husband Noel, and Lohammy and her husband G. Eliseo's legacy of love and kindness continues through his cherished grandchildren, Kimberly, Mikey, Ariana, and Saniah, who brought immense joy to his life. He is also lovingly remembered by his siblings, brother Ramiro, and sisters Petra and Ines, along with his special niece, Nana, who held a unique place in his heart. Eliseo's extended family of nieces and nephews, as well as countless friends, mourn his loss but celebrate the beautiful life he led. Eliseo's life was a testament to the power of kindness, resilience, and unconditional love - he was a true legend. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, serving as a gentle reminder of the impact one person can have on countless lives. His gentle and kind spirit will be sorely missed until everyone who remains in this world has the chance to reunite with him.

Funeral services for Eliseo were private, and were entrusted into the care of Washington Memorial Funeral Home, 4 Washington Ave., North Haven. washingtonmemorialfh.com

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