Rafael Esteban Ramos

Rafael Esteban Ramos, of Bradenton, FL, peacefully passed away on November 4, 2022. He was born in New York City on October 11, 1925. Rafael was a decorated combat veteran of World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. He retired from the military as a Major in the United States Air Force after serving more than 22 years. During WWII, with the 8th Air Force in England, Rafael flew more than 50 combat missions as a tail gunner in a B-17 bomber in the 36th Bomb Squadron, a unique, radar-jamming outfit. For a few months, that squadron was assigned to the 100th Bomb Group of the Royal Air Force, which mostly flew at night and supported the daylight missions of the 8th Air Force. Rafael was awarded the Air Medal with five oak leaf clusters. Then, he enjoyed civilian life for several years during which he completed junior college. During the Korean War, back on active duty in May 1951, Rafael became a Navigator and Bombardier on a B-26 and flew 50 combat missions over North Korea, which were mostly at night. Rafael was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross and four more oak leaf clusters to the Air Medal. During the Cold War, from 1953, Rafael served in the Strategic Air Command for 16 years, and flew in KC-97s, B-47s and B-52s as a Navigator and Bombardier. That service spanned during the Vietnam War until Rafael’s retirement in 1969. During his military service, Rafael earned a bachelor’s degree in business from Florida State University in 1958. He and his loving wife Kitty both earned their master’s degrees from the Inter American University of Puerto Rico in 1969.

After retiring from the United States Air Force, Rafael wore many hats, including real estate broker, junior college professor and salesman. Being an actor since his teens in New York City, wearing multiple hats came naturally for him. He had an enormously giving heart and compassionate nature, especially to those who were underserved. His colorful 97 years are a testament to his stamina and how he lived his long life with vigor and gusto. Honor, respect and courage are words Rafael personified, all for the love of our country and for his wife and family.

Rafael was predeceased by his son, Ricardo Ramos, who greets him with open arms. He was also predeceased by his brother Richard, sister Connie and sister Blanca. He is survived by Kitty, his beautiful wife of 58 years, his brother Neal (and wife Ana), and by children, Rafael (and wife Tara), Raúl, Rolán (and partner Sharon), and Eva Conchita (and husband Sergio), their bonus son Danny Leombruno (and wife Dawn), their foster sons Randy Lewen and Gary Schmidt (and wife Kim), and his children’s siblings, Daniel Nelson (and wife Michele) and Lisa Nelson (and husband Patric). He is also survived by grandchildren Chance (and wife Hilary), Devin, Rand, Raquel (and husband Francisco), Ricardo, Julia, Fallon, Lucia, Daniela, Aidan and Colin, great grandson Cade, and many nieces and nephews. His family will honor him at his Celebration of Life in Bradenton. At a later date, he will be interned at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, where he will receive military honors.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Disabled American Veterans, or any other nonprofit veterans' organization.