Ricardo O. Reyes

With profound sadness and deep gratitude for a life well lived, we announce the passing of Ricardo Ocampo Reyes, who entered into eternal rest on July 23, 2026, at the age 88 after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

Born on February 15, 1938, in Pampanga, Philippines, Ricardo was the beloved son of Dominador and Rufina Ocampo. He was the middle child of eight siblings and, in a poignant testament to a long life, became the last surviving member of his family.

As a young man, Ricardo worked as an airplane mechanic at Nichols Air Force Base in the Philippines. Blessed with natural charisma and extraordinary dancing skills, he also became a sought-after dance instructor for military generals and their wives. Among those he taught was Josefa Edralin Marcos, the mother of former Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos. Remarkably, Ricardo was only eighteen years old.

Ricardo was known for his striking good looks, impeccable style, and magnetic personality. Though admired by many, his heart belonged to only one woman– Leticia T. Reyes. Their love story became family legend. Leticia, a serious and studious young woman, initially paid little attention to his persistent courtship. Undeterred, Ricardo sent heartfelt love letters, faithfully delivered by his seven-year-old niece, Dolly Reyes. His patience and devotion won her heart, and together they built a beautiful marriage that lasted nearly sixty years until Leticia’s passing on January 9, 2021.

Together they had three children and pursued the American dream by immigrating to the United States in 1972.

Ricardo dedicated 28 years of service as a Nurse’s Aid at Beth Israel Medical Center. His patients frequently requested him by name, appreciating his kindness, compassion, and gentle spirit. His coworkers admired his dependability, unwavering work ethic, and willingness to help anyone in need.

Outside of work, Ricardo embraced life with enthusiasm. He loved getting together with his men “barkadas” to sing, play guitar, dance, bowl, play billiards and enjoy his favorite beer –Heineken. He delighted in showing visiting Filipino nurses around New York, happily driving them to tourist destinations and making them feel at home.

Ricardo also possessed a remarkable gift for healing. Having learned traditional manual healing techniques from his parents, he generously helped countless friends and family members relieve strains and musculoskeletal injuries. Many sought not only his healing hands but also his wisdom, encouragement, and practical advice.

Though he made his home in America, Ricardo never forgot his roots. Every year he lovingly sent televisions, shoes, clothing, gifts and financial support to his siblings and extended family in the Philippines. His generosity touched many lives and reflected the depth of his love for family.

Above all, Ricardo was a devoted husband, loving father, loyal friend, and faithful provider whose greatest joy was caring for those around him.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Leticia T. Reyes; his precious youngest son, Mar Anthony Reyes, who passed away from cancer on August 12, 2025; his parents, and all seven of his siblings.

His is lovingly survived by his children, Miraflor Reyes-Ganzon and her husband Zenin “Bong” Ganzon, and Raymond Reyes and his wife Maria Roberts-Reyes, along with many nieces, nephews, relatives, and countless friends whose lives were forever enriched by his kindness, humor, generosity and love.

Though Ricardo has left this earthly life, his legacy lives on in every life he touched. His laughter, music, generosity, compassion, and unwavering love for his family will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know him.

“Well done, good and faithful servant”

Visitation will be held at Werst & LaBella Funeral Home, 71-41 Cooper Ave, Glendale, NY 11385, US, on July 30, 2026, from 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at Sacred Heart RC Church, 83-17 78th Ave, Glendale, New York 11385, on July 31, 2026, from 9:30 am to 10:30 am.

A Committal Service will be held at Pinelawn Memorial Park and Arboretum, 2030 Wellwood Ave, Farmingdale, NY 11735, US, on July 31, 2026, from 11:30 am to 12:00 pm.