Max Ramirez, Jr.

On Monday, May 17, 2021, Max Ramirez, loving husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather passed away at the age of 88.

Max was born on August 11, 1932 to parents Max and Teresita Ramirez. He was the only son of five siblings. His sisters were: Margaret Sanchez, Maxine Anaya, Clara Rambes, and Becky Lovato. On May 12, 1956, he married Rita Hernandez. Together they raised five children: Maria, Juanita, Ruben, Steve and Pauline, 18 grandchildren and 34 great grandchildren.

Max proudly served his country as an Army serviceman in the Korean War. His passion for service extended to his personal life where he led a decades-long campaign as a dedicated and passionate community activist, fighting corporate pollution in the Sawmill neighborhood. He and others spent countless hours working to make the community better and cleaner for all. Speaking before a large crowd on May 2, 2007, for the demolition of the Ponderosa Products plant, he said, “It’s been a long, long struggle. People don’t know the struggle that happened here…but being persistent, it’s finally going to happen.”

Max loved to golf. Golf served as a sanctuary for Max; a place where he was always at peace and happy. His journey with golf started when he was just a teenager, caddying at the Albuquerque Country Club. After hours, he would jump the fence and play until dark. Through the years, he became well known and respected for not only his high level of play, but for the respect and kindness he showed toward the game and all who were in his presence. It warmed is heart to see that his passion for the game was passed to his family. But make no mistake, Max was a fierce competitor and thoroughly enjoyed beating his playing partners every time he tee’d it up.

He was also an avid outdoorsman. Max had a passion for anything outdoors. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, camping and picking pinon. What he adored most about these activities was spending time with loved ones. He was a teacher, storyteller, protector, comedian, cook, and many other things. It’s a guarantee that anyone who had ever had the pleasure of going on an outdoors trip with Max, has many funny stories to tell.

Max was also highly skilled with his hands. He had the ability to build anything out of wood. He was also an outstanding mechanic and painter. He built many things such as ristras, crosses and jewelry boxes. Crocheting was another passion of his. He made blankets for his grandchildren and thoroughly enjoyed learning new complex patterns. Many of crafts he made, he enjoyed giving away as gifts.

Max loved his wife and kids, but his greatest qualities and strength were derived from the love and admiration he felt for his grandchildren and great grandchildren.  The indelible impact he left with those he loved will always be cherished and he will never be forgotten.

Max's Life Celebration will begin with a Rosary on Friday, May 21, 2021 at 11:30 am at San Felipe de Neri Catholic Church located at 2005 N Plaza St NW, 87104. Mass will be held at 12:00 pm. Max will be laid to rest at Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery located at 924 Menual Blvd. NE, 87107.

Pallbearers will be Michael Hines, Max Ramirez, Richard Baca, Jacob Montoya, Henry Ramirez, and John G. Baca.

Honorary pallbearers will be Andrew Ramirez and Maggie Ramirez, a ensign in the U.S. Navy.