Rene Richard Ramos
It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved son and brother, Rene Richard Ramos, on February 21, 2026, in Santa Barbara, California, after a tragic off-roading accident.
Rene was the youngest of 3 children born to Josephine A. and Raymond J. Ramos Sr. on May 9, 1973, in Santa Barbara, California, at Goleta Valley Community Hospital.
Rene graduated from Hollister Elementary School, La Colina Junior High School, and San Marcos High School (1991), where he played and lettered in both Football and Track & Field (Discus & Shot Put). After exploring several career paths, he found his calling in the Radiologic Technology (RT) Program at Santa Barbara City College. He graduated from the program in 2009 and started working that same year at Goleta Valley Cottage Hospital, the same hospital where he was born, until his untimely passing.
For more than 16 years, Rene provided exceptional care for his patients, expertise and experience for his coworkers, and served as a Preceptor for the SBCC RT Program, teaching, mentoring, and training the next generation of Radiologic Technologists. He was a Lead Radiologic Technologist and held a CT-3 advanced certification.
Rene was a strong, kind, and caring giant of a human being, which served him well in life and his profession. Those who knew him best remember his incredible sense of humor, his strong spirit, and his willingness to help. If you ever needed any help, he was always there to support you.
Though he did not have children of his own, he was deeply loved by his niece and nephews — each of whom held a special place in his heart. His extended family of close friends, the Boo-Yaa Boyz – Bentley, Chilo, Jason, Nava, Lou & Tony, formed in high school while playing football together on the offensive and defensive lines. It led to a lifelong friendship filled with constant humor, support, and love. No matter the distance or time apart, they always remained close.
Rene had a deep love for music and driving – two passions that defined much of his life. Music filled his space and life, in many ways, told his story. Both his father and older brother were musicians and DJs, filling their home with music from the very beginning. He would spend hours making mixed tapes, CDs, and playlists to share with friends while cruising. His collection was vast and eclectic, reflecting whatever he felt at the time as he drove. Driving was his freedom and passion since the day he got his learner’s permit. Countless hours and miles spent cruising around with friends, listening to music, laughing, talking, and simply living all behind the wheel as he drove through life until the very end. He enjoyed the outdoors, including mountain biking, camping, fishing, hiking in Zion, and, more recently, off-roading. He loved nature for its solitude and peace. He also enjoyed working out with free weights, visiting casinos and playing penny slots, target shooting, and exploring all things electronic.
Rene’s life reminds us that compassion is strength, that love shows in our actions, and that being present for others when they need help is a legacy all its own. He brought Light into this world and will be deeply missed. Rest in Peace.
He was preceded in death by his father, Raymond J. Ramos, Sr., and nephew, Baby Daniel. He is lovingly survived by his mother, Josephine A. Ramos; his sister, Katherine (Cecil) DeMille; his brother, Raymond (Betty) L. Ramos, Jr.; his brother from another mother, Jason (Kim) Siegert; his nephews Raymond L. Ramos, Jr. and William R. DeMille; his niece, Celina C. Ramos; and a large and devoted extended family, including the Boo-Yaa Boyz.
The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Goleta Valley Cottage Hospital for sharing his work life with them and for how much he meant to them. A memorial service will be held at Saint Raphael Catholic Church on Friday, April 24, 2026, at 10:00 am, followed by a Celebration of Life.
Instead of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the SBCC Foundation, Rene Ramos RT Program Scholarship Fund.
