Alonzo Ramirez
June 10, 1939-Nov. 2, 2025
Palo Alto, California
Alonzo B. "Al" Ramirez, 86, of Palo Alto, California, passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 2, 2025.
Born June 10, 1939, in El Paso, Texas, to Dalmira Chacon and Baldomero Ramirez, Al lived a life defined by patience, humility, intellect, and love.
After four years in the U.S. Air Force, Al earned a Bachelor of Science from the University of Texas at El Paso through the GI Bill, followed by a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from California State University, Long Beach. He enjoyed a distinguished 40-year career as an aerospace engineer with McDonnell Douglas, Fokker Aircraft, and Polaris Aircraft selling and leasing commercial aircraft worldwide. He was a trailblazer at a time when few Mexican Americans held advanced degrees in the sciences.
A gifted linguist and natural communicator, Al adapted seamlessly to any country he visited. His sharp mind and genuine curiosity helped him forge deep connections wherever he went. Those who knew him will remember his easy warmth, quick wit, and sincere interest in others.
Al was married to Helen Vasquez for 48 wonderful years until her passing in 2013. Together they raised two daughters, Kira of Fresno and Elena of Palo Alto, who were the great joys of his life.
Each morning, Al began his day with The Wall Street Journal and delighted in reading the National Geographic. He loved music, natural history, and nature—and rarely missed checking his home weather station. He will be remembered for his empathy, gentle grace, and unwavering devotion to family.
Al is survived by his two daughters, sister, and brother, all of California.
A funeral was held November 13, 2025, at Alta Mesa Memorial Park, Palo Alto, with a memorial service to follow in Laguna Beach, CA on January 18, 2026.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Rosener House Adult Day Care in Menlo Park at 1pvi.org or The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research.
Al was the original "girl dad"—a man who adored his wife and daughters. May he rest in peace, knowing he was loved back tenfold.
Tags: veteran
