Dr. Ramon L. Ruiz was born in Piñar del Rio, Cuba on September 26, 1967 to Aurora and Ramon. Due to the communist regime, they emigrated via Spain to the United States in 1968, and in 1970 made Miami their home.
The family grew with two more sons, Diego and Javier, whom Ramon cared for with a great sense of responsibility. From an early age Ramon was always academically inclined, ultimately discovering his passion for oral and maxillofacial surgery at the age of 15. He went on to receive a Bachelor’s degree in Biology at the Florida State University where he met Laura, fell in love and married her 11 months later. They continued their educational journey and Ramon went on to receive a Doctorate of Dental Medicine, Doctorate of Medicine and completed a Fellowship in Craniofacial surgery. The family endured the tragic death of Diego in 1993 which strengthened the value of family for Ramon.
In 1996, Ramon and Laura started a family and adopted three beautiful daughters, Julia (27) Maia (22) and Josephine (20). His love for his family and his daughters was unwavering, deep, and incredibly thoughtful. Ramon has an expansive network of family, friends, and colleagues whom he all adored. By all who knew him, Ramon was known for his exceptional story-telling ability, passionate views, and vibrant sense of humor. He loved 80s music, family movie nights, savored a good bourbon old fashioned, and enjoyed spending time in Blowing Rock, North Carolina. Ramon relished time with his mom, Javier and his wife, Iris, and their two children, Kai and Carolina and was most happy when both families would vacation together.
Professionally, Ramon was committed and dedicated to treating children. He began his career at the University of North Carolina and in 2007, developed the Pediatric Craniofacial Surgery Program at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children in Orlando. Over the course of his career he treated over 8,000 children. He was known for his compassion, loyalty, relentless pursuit of excellence, generosity, elite clinical skills, and infectious smile. Additionally, he was a mentor and educator to many, including students and colleagues in his field, for whom he always made time to provide his undivided attention in order to listen, guide, and help in any way he could. Above all he exuded gratitude for all the people who crossed his path and the opportunities he was given.
When diagnosed with cancer in May he made every effort to spend time with Laura, his daughters, family and friends. He requested to be surrounded by laughter and joy, reminding loved ones that only 90 seconds of crying were allowed. Surrounded continuously by the love of family and friends, Ramon passed away on September 9, 2023 with Laura by his side.
Funeral Services will be held Saturday, September 30th at 10:00 a.m. The service will be held at Saint Margaret Mary Catholic Church. 526 N. Park Av, Winter Park, FL 32789.