Margo T. Ramos

Margo Ramos (Bird), 86, of Wapato, WA, passed away on December 4, 2025, at home, surrounded by his beloved wife, Mary, and his family.

He was born on July 20, 1939, in Georgetown, Texas, to Juan and Rosa Ramos. During his childhood, Margo learned early on the value of independence and finding joy in simple things. He would collect pop bottles to earn money so he could go to the movie theater to watch a movie and enjoy popcorn. He also loved riding his bicycle--often without a seat--visiting friends and enjoying the freedom of being a kid. These early experiences reflected the resourcefulness, determination, and appreciation for life's simple pleasures that stayed with him throughout his life.

Margo's family migrated from Texas early in his life, traveling for work to Casa Grande, Arizona, New Mexico, and California before eventually settling in Wapato, WA in 1943. Margo grew up in Wapato, built lifelong relationships, and put down roots that shaped the rest of his life.

Margo loved his country and proudly served in the United States Army from 1962 to 1965 as a medic. He was stationed overseas in Europe, spending the majority of his service in Germany. His time in the military reflected his deep sense of duty, compassion for others, and commitment to service.

Margo married the love of his life, Mary Martinez, on August 17, 1965. Together they shared 60 years of marriage, filled with a lifetime of love, treasured memories, and unwavering devotion to one another. Their marriage was the foundation of their family and a true example of commitment, partnership, and enduring love. Together, they raised four children: Mark, Michelle, Rosie, and Stephanie.

Margo understood the value of hard work from an early age. He worked in the fields and hop yards, and later in warehouses at Inland and Snokist in Wapato as a forklift driver. His desire to serve his community led him to work at Yakima Valley Farm Workers Clinic as an outreach director, helping connect others with care and support.

Driven by a deep commitment to provide a better future for his family, Margo persevered and made great sacrifices to pursue a nursing degree, eventually becoming a registered nurse. He spent the majority of his nursing career at Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital as a psychiatric nurse, where he cared for patients with compassion, patience, and dignity. He later became a charge nurse with the Yakima American Red Cross, continuing his lifelong dedication to service until retiring after more than 30 years in the nursing field.

Margo found joy in the simple pleasures of life and in being present for the people he loved. He loved attending local basketball games with his partner and brother, Sotero, and going to dances with his wife, Mary. He enjoyed going to the movies, listening to oldies-but-goodies radio stations, and spending time surrounded by family. A devoted Seattle sports fan, he proudly followed his beloved Seattle Mariners and Seattle Seahawks. One of his most cherished daily routines was reading the local newspaper--something he did every day and found great peace in.

He was always attending his grandchildren's sporting events, award ceremonies, and school activities--you name it, if one of his grandchildren had an event, Margo was there. He loved family barbecues, coming together to enjoy a good meal, watch sports, and sharing time and laughter with those he loved most. His presence at these gatherings reflected the deep love and pride he had for his family.

Margo is survived by his loving wife, Mary Ramos. His children: Mark Ramos (Tanya), Michelle Hauck (Randy), Rosie Morales (Carlos), and Stephanie Benitez (Miguel).

Grandchildren: Anthony Ramos (Melissa), Ashleigh Ramos (Jairo), Lauren Morales (Martin), Kristina Ramos (Joshua), Matthew Hauck (Marisela), Mark Ramos (Daisy), Miguel Benitez III, CJ Morales (Mari), Sophia Benitez, and Aidan Morales. Great-grandchildren: Aliyah, Mila, Mark III, Mauricio, Lucas, Benjamin, Emiliano, AJ, Jaiden, Makaio, Malaio, Emme, Averie, Ava, Noah, and Milania.

He was preceded in death by his father, Juan; mother, Rosa; brothers, Roger, John, and Sotero; sister, Dora; and great-grandson, Eden Matheu Miranda.

Margo will be remembered for his humble heart, tireless work ethic, unwavering devotion to his family, and the quiet strength with which he lived his life. He leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and sacrifice--a life well lived and deeply cherished.

We love you, Bird--Always and Forever.

Viewing is scheduled for Thursday, December 18, 2025 from 3:00pm to 7:00pm, with a vigil beginning at 6:00pm, at Brookside Funeral Home (500 W. Prospect, Moxee, WA 98936). Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, December 19, 2025 at 11:00am at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church (1707 S 3rd Ave, Yakima, WA 98902), followed by Burial at Terrace Heights Memorial Park and a Reception at the VFW Post #379 (118 S. 5th Ave, Yakima, WA 98902)