Jesus Madrid Ocampo

Jesus was born on June 8, 1934 in Mexico City, Pampanga, Philippines. He was the fourth of six children to Carmen (nee Madrid) and Ponciano Ocampo. Jesus had a lively upbringing alongside his siblings and stayed close to them throughout their lives - near or far, with them eventually spreading out between the United States and the Philippines.

From a young age, a zest for learning and discipline was instilled in him. Inspired by healthcare workers in his family, he decided to pursue a career as a physician. He completed his medical degree at the University of Santo Tomas in 1958. He enjoyed a distinguished and prolific career as a Radiologist serving veterans at the VA Medical Center and educating young medical students. He made sure to pass down the lessons and mindset that got him through his training and career. His grandchildren will always fondly recall the chalk talks centering around his laws of learning: intensity, recency, and repetition - and the advice to never miss the opportunity to take a siesta.

During the early stages of his medical career, Jesus met the love of his life, Manuela Barin, while working at the hospital. What began as a friendship quickly bloomed into love and marriage. As the story goes, they delayed Manuela’s departure to the States and began building their family with the birth of their only child, Geraldine Ocampo. In pursuit of their careers, Manuela left for the States, and Jesus and Geraldine eventually followed the love of his life to the U.S. All together they lived in Minnesota and then eventually planted their roots in Michigan - where they built the home they have lived in til this day.

Jesus, Jess, Susing, or Lolo was a kind-hearted, intelligent, steadfast, faithful and loving husband, father, grandfather and friend. He was a man of faith and a devout member of the St Matthew’s Parish and Church. His wife, daughter and four grandchildren were the pride and joys of his life. He relished documenting many of the family milestones on his camcorder and camera. From family trips to his grandkids sporting events and even everyday life at home, he captured every moment in between. He enjoyed trips with his love, his family and eventually travel groups - you could find him admiring any scenic view when he was out and about. One of his favorite destinations included going to Vegas to see shows, enjoy a buffet, and sip on his favorite, a 7 and 7. He also enjoyed trips where his grandchildren would get him out of his comfort zone to try new things - a favorite family memory being when he rode the Cedar Point Power Tower at the young age of 75. One of his favorite past times included dancing - you could find him quaintly dancing to a beat in a car ride, line dancing at a family reunion, or even just swaying and holding his wife during dances around the kitchen. Music played a large role in his life - he was always quick to respond with a song that fit the conversation (“I did it my way” being a frequent answer). He was not one to shy away from competition as he showed off in bowling leagues during his younger years and eventually transitioned to taking over during weekly mahjong games in his later years.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Manuela; his daughter Geraldine Ocampo Gallant; his grandchildren, Jack, Kayla, Bella, and Drew Gallant. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dr. Ponciano and Carmen Ocampo; and his siblings, Dr. Ponciano Jr., Mely, Angelina, Lourdes, and Agustin Ocampo.

In lieu of flowers, Jesus’ family requests memorial contributions to:

St. Matthew Catholic Church via https://stmatthewdetroit.com/giving OR call directly at (313) 884-4470.