Joseph Clifford Ramsdale

“Joe is flying West in clear skies and smooth air.”

 

Joseph Clifford “Joe” Ramsdale passed away peacefully at his home in Aurora, Colorado on July 31, 2024, at the age of 87. His life was a testament to courage, commitment, and love.

 Joe was born on October 30, 1936, in Columbus City, Iowa to Reverend Clifford and Katherine Ramsdale and the youngest of three older sisters. Joe embarked on a remarkable journey of service and adventure. After earning his BA at Monmouth College, he answered the call of duty and became a Naval officer and valiant aviator who served with distinction during the Vietnam War. His passion for flying led him to soar the skies as a commercial airline pilot for Continental and United Airlines, touching the lives of many with his expertise, professionalism, and inspired confidence in all who flew with him.

 Joe faced profound loss when his first wife, Lynne Lommen Ramsdale, passed away at the tender age of 46. Despite the heartache, he found love again with Maria Josephine Ramsdale, whom he cherished for 34 beautiful years.

 Joe was known for his unwavering love of golf, which brought him solace, joy and tranquility on the greens. His dedication to a healthy lifestyle and his Zen philosophy inspired all who had the privilege of knowing him.

 He is survived and will be deeply missed by his loving wife, Maria Josephine Ramsdale; his children, Michael James Ramsdale, David Joseph Ramsdale and his wife Kelli, Kathryn Lommen Ramsdale Kennedy and her husband Brian; his son-in-law Mark Diller; his stepdaughters Lisa Shaw and Erin Clark; his sisters, Louise Ramsdale Daw, Mary Ramsdale Dunlap, and Margaret Ramsdale Alford; and his seven grandchildren Nicholas Diller, Dylan Ramsdale, Cole Ramsdale, Trey Ramsdale, Bryce Ramsdale, Lommen Ramsdale and Archer Ramsdale.

 Joe was preceded in death by his parents, first wife and his daughter, Elizabeth Lynne Ramsdale Diller.

 In honoring the life of Joseph C. Ramsdale, we honor a man of integrity, valor, and grace whose legacy will endure in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

 Memorial services will take place at Horan Chapel at Horan & McConaty Funeral Home (Aurora) on Saturday, September 7 at 10:00 a.m. followed by a celebration of life at the Valley Country Club at 12:00 noon.

 In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial contributions be made to the American Cancer Society and the Disabled American Veterans.

 

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