Elie “Louis” Ramia passed away peacefully Monday January 13th at Binghamton General Hospital.
He was predeceased by his parents, siblings and many family members in Lebanon as well as his brother Tanios of Binghamton.
He is survived by his Son George and his “Gift from God” daughter in law Terri-Jo. The lights of his life, grandchildren Elijah and Elissar Ramia.
Also surviving are his sister-in -law Siham, Nieces Hadil Ramia-Clark and her Husband Bill and Andalib Christiansen and her Husband Karsten. Great Nephews Ethan and Samuel Clark, as well as his many Nieces and Nephews in Lebanon.
Arriving from Lebanon in 1969, without a word of English and only $100 in his pocket, Elie worked tirelessly to achieve the American Dream.
After retiring from IBM he continued working from his “office” which was the Donut Shop on Main Street in Binghamton. Many a deal was made over a handshake and a “cup-coffee”
Dad never met a stranger, he only had friends. This includes his neighbors from his beloved West Side of Binghamton home who he always said were more like his family. Always sharing a wave and his joyful “hello neighbor” from his favorite chair on the porch.
For many years you could find Dad out with his crew, brother Tanios, cousins Naim and Halim Slilaty and Dr. Isam Abdelazim. Each of them taking a piece of his heart when they passed away. We are sure they welcomed Dad with his favorite Arabic music, a “piece-sweet” and a cup of Turkish coffee.
For Dad, life was simple and revolved around his family, watching them grow and succeed. Nothing brought him more joy than being a Dad and Jiddu and he was the very best at both. We will spend the rest of our lives making him proud.
Special thanks to Scott Schaffer and the staff at Ideal Senior Living Center for helping Dad to adapt and thrive in Assisted Living. To UHS Main Tower 3 and BGH Palliative Care for making him feel comfortable and cared for in his final weeks.
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated 10:30 am, Saturday, January 18 at Our Lady of Sorrows Church, 801 Main Street, Vestal. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery, Johnson City. The family will receive friends at the Allen Memorial Home, 511-513 East Main Street, Endicott, Friday, Januarys 17 from 4-6 pm.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Palliative Care Unit at Binghamton General Hospital.