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Lincoln Ramirez Obituary
Dr. Lincoln Franklin Ramirez
Jan. 1, 1939 - Aug. 7, 2023
MADISON - Dr. Lincoln Franklin Ramirez, age 84, passed away on August 7, 2023.
Dr. Ramirez was born January 1, 1939, to Louise Franklin and Gilberto Ramirez. His parents were strong advocates for education and instilled in him a lifelong love of learning. Dr. Ramirez's scholastic journey began at home. He attended Putney School where he excelled academically and was introduced to the domains of music, farming, sports, and maple syrup production.
After completing his undergraduate degree at the University of Chicago, he attended the University of Illinois Medical School where he obtained his MD, PhD, and met his beloved wife of fifty years, Dr. Carolyn Bell. Together, they moved to Boston and completed their residency training before relocating to Madison, where they have lived since 1979.
That same year, Dr. Ramirez joined the Department of Neurosurgery at UW Hospital and made many contributions. He was an outstanding teacher and mentor for both medical students and residents. For many years, Dr. Ramirez oversaw the success of the neurosurgical residency training program. He also conducted research in the areas of epilepsy and movement disorders. In 2018, the Lincoln F. Ramirez Neurosurgery Operative Skills Laboratory was dedicated in his honor to ensure continued anatomic education for future neuroscientists. For Dr. Ramirez, the study of the brain was a privilege and the practice of neurosurgery an honor.
A student of the world, Dr. Ramirez appreciated the beauty around him. His experiences at Putney School became the foundation of his passions for opera, the art of lawn care, downhill skiing, bird watching, and cooking, but his greatest love was that of his family. He took pride in sharing his passions with them and in their accomplishments.
He is survived by his wife; daughters: Sarah, Valerie (David), and Julia; grandchildren: Olivia, William, and James; sisters: Martha (Arthur) and Gilma (Daniel); and extended family.
His principled teaching, loving ways, and generous kindness will be perpetuated and never forgotten. He will be greatly missed, fondly remembered, and forever loved.
Memorial services will be held at CRESS FUNERAL HOME, 3610 Speedway Road, Saturday, August 26, 2023, with the visitation from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM with service to follow.
Please share your memories at www.cressfuneralservice.com.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Lincoln Ramirez, MD Neuroanatomy Lab/UW Neurological Surgery Research and Education Fund. Donate electronically at: LincolnRamirezNeuroAnatomyLab; or send a check to: UW Foundation, U.S. Bank Lockbox, Box 78807, Milwaukee, WI, 53278-0807.
Cress Funeral & Cremation Service
3610 Speedway Road Madison
(608) 238-3434
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Memories and Condolences
for Lincoln Ramirez
Sponsored by Cress Funeral & Cremation Service - Madison West.
Regina Blakeley
August 7, 2024
Thinking about you today with tenderness.
Regina Blakeley
Catherine Gallagher
September 1, 2023
My condolences to the family and especially to Carolyn. Dr. Ramirez was a great teacher and neurosurgeon, as well as an excellent neurologist. I am honored to have worked with and learned from him.
The Staff of Cress Funeral & Cremation Service
August 24, 2023
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
Holly Peer
August 24, 2023
I had the privilege of working in Neurology Neurosurgery floor he was a very talented and kind man. I am so sorry for your loss. H. Peer
Barbara Stowe-Carpenter
August 23, 2023
Carolyn and family
I´m so sorry for your loss. I remember Dr Ramirez as a great teacher and mentor. You are in my thoughts and prayers
Barbara Stowe-Carpenter
Kathryn Kleckner
August 23, 2023
Dear Carolyn,
I am sorry to hear you have lost your dear husbund. I worked in after school daycare when your girls were young and worked at the VA Hospital with Dr. Ramirez. My condolences to you and your children.
Kathryn Kleckner
Susan Clearfield
August 23, 2023
So many memories of Dr. Ramirez from working at the VA (6B,7B Neurology). Yes, a lot of nurses would disappear when he appeared on the floor, fearful of not being able to answer a question or provide assistance. I learned the best approach was to approach him with "How can I help you, Dr. Ramirez?" and all would be good. He was the only surgeon who would offer to ambulate a patient, or offer assistance when a patient refused bowel care (!) His patients were so well cared for. Condolences to the family and all the friends who adored this man.
Regina Blakeley
August 23, 2023
Dr. Bell,
I am so sorry for your loss. Words don´t convey the depth of what you´re going through, but you are dearly loved and thought of as you take this journey. I will hold you close this weekend.
Regina Blakeley
Donna Miller
August 20, 2023
My deepest sympathies to all Dr Ramirez family! I worked with Dr Ramirez at the VAHospital for many years. He was a great man and teacher. My thoughts and prayers are with you all
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