[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 154 (2008), Part 9]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 12494]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                       TRIBUTE TO PETER B. RAMOS

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. JOE BACA

                             of california-

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 12, 2008

  Mr. BACA. Madam Speaker, I stand here today to honor a dedicated 
civic leader, loyal friend, loving father and husband, adoring 
grandfather and doting great-grandfather--Peter B. Ramos.
   Born in El Paso, Texas, Pete moved to San Bernardino, California 
where he grew up to become a longstanding member of the community, 
including his participation at San Salvador Church in Colton and Sacred 
Heart Church in Palm Dessert.
   After graduating from San Bernardino High School in 1955, Pete 
proudly served in the U.S. Army and was stationed in Germany until 
1958. Returning to San Bernardino, Pete was hired by the San Bernardino 
Unified School District, remaining a devoted employee for thirty years.
   In 1973, Pete was an instrumental founding member of the GENTS 
Organization, a community-based association whose purpose is directed 
at helping today's youth become tomorrow's leaders. The leadership of 
Pete within the GENTS Organization has contributed to it's successful 
fundraising events, generating thousands of dollars in scholarships, 
donations to charitable organizations and the sponsorship of sports 
activities for the youth.
   In addition to his service to the San Bernardino Unified School 
District, Pete was also a part-time employee of the San Bernardino Golf 
Club. An avid golf player, his fervent passion for both the sport and 
the community was demonstrated by all of the golf clubs he helped 
establish. These include the Gents Golf Association, San Bernardino 
County Twilight Golf League, Golf Buddies, Colton Golf Club, and San 
Bernardino Golf Club.
   Pete was an empowering leader within the San Bernardino community, 
an excellent role model who set his sights on helping others have a 
better life. He lived by example, saying to me, ``Joe, you can change 
life and attitudes by believing and giving others a chance.''
   Having always enjoyed his company on the green, he was also a strong 
supporter of my political endeavors. More then anything, Pete was a 
true friend to my family and I, especially in his great support of my 
sons, City Councilman Joe Baca Jr. and Jeremy Baca.
   Pete is survived by his wife of 49 years, Helen Ramos, former City 
Councilwoman, whom he deeply loved. Pete is also survived by his 
daughter, Roseanne Reyes; his son, Armando; grandchildren, Raylene 
Soto, Leandra Soto, Bree Reyes, Michael Reyes; great-grandchild, Noelle 
Tavie; his sisters, Connie Hernandez, Lucy Zamora; brothers, Louis, 
Daniel, Joe; and many nieces, nephews and godchildren.
   Let us take a moment to remember this great man and his admirable 
dedication to instilling positive change and leading an exemplary life, 
one in whose footsteps we all hope to follow. The thoughts and prayers 
of my wife Barbara, my family and I are with his family at this time.
   God Bless Pete Ramos for love of country and mankind.

                          ____________________