To the family and friends of Ramiro, written on behalf of the Benitez Family:
In the early hours of Sunday, September 20th, we lost our beloved father, son, brother, nephew, cousin, friend, Ramiro Fernando Benitez. We, as a family, would like to share this statement about Ramiro’s life.

Many memories of Ramiro’s life are of a quiet boy who turned into a gentle man with a playful, mischievous sort of personality. Whenever anyone brings out a family album, the first thing to notice about Ram was his sparling set of blue-green eyes, accented further by the contrast against his dark brown locks. His striking gaze sparkled at the sight of a Christmas Eve party, when the whole family would gather. Each year, one of the “grown-ups” would dress as Santa Claus, himself, and ring the doorbell at the stroke of midnight. The younger children were not aware of this trickery; however, any time Ram was Santa, his eyes twinkled a little brighter as he called out the kiddos’ names and handed them gifts, all the while embracing his pillowcase-stuffed belly. If there was an opportunity to laugh, Ramiro was there to laugh with us. If there was an opportunity to hold our grandmother’s hand and let her pinch his cheek, Ramiro was there to indulge her.

Ramiro leaves behind his son, Jonathan; his parents, Soledad and Julio; his siblings, Maximiliano, Gabriela, Mariano, Enrique, and Mauricio; and a number of family and friends who, although equally important, are too many to count. (Please forgive any omissions.) Although we are comforted by our Faith, knowing that Ramiro is now embraced in God’s arms, we cannot help but share with our friends and family the sadness Ramiro's passing has caused. In this incredibly difficult time, it helps to reach out so that we may find solace in our loved ones and our dearest friends – to know that we are not alone in our grieving. Thank you for reading our statement and for your support as we navigate this challenging path.  - cousin, Sophie Barragan

And finally, to Ramiro, a poem:
 

I am sending a dove to Heaven,

With a parcel on its wings.

Be careful when you open it,

It’s full of beautiful things.

 

Inside are a million kisses,

Wrapped up in a million hugs,

To say how much I miss you,

And to send you all my love.

 

I hold you close within my heart,

And there you will remain,

To walk with me throughout my life,

Until we meet again.

 

-Author Anonymous

*This page has been created for Ramiro, by his sister's best friend to help Gabriela with the efforts to raise resources necessary for a modest service and cremation, per his families wishes. Please feel free to reach out to Gabriela  with any questions. Thank you.*