euskalkultura.eus

2016/01/03 - Eagle, Idaho, AEB

(Fruiz, Bizkaia, EH, 1943 - Eagle, ID, USA, 2016)

Jose Ramon Legarreta of Eagle, Idaho passed away on January 3, 2016. Ramon was born December 20, 1943 in Fruiz-Fruniz Bizkaia to Severiano and Maria Legarreta.

Ramon spent his early years growing up in Fruniz among his family and forming lifelong friendships. Ramon came to the United States when he was 18 and soon became a US citizen.

Ramon loved socializing, having fun, and of course working hard. He had a love of life unparalled by most. He enjoyed every minute spent with his friends and had a special love of family and children. His nephews and nieces were fortunate enough to have an Uncle as loving as Ramon. He was not just a Tio, but a second father to each of us. He never married, but instead made his family and friends his top priority. He made new friendships wherever he went.

Ramon loved working in the field, playing cards, gardening, socializing at the Basque center, and having dinners at his house with friends was a great source of joy for him. His garden harvest was always shared with friends, family, and neighbors. You could never leave his house without some type of vegetables, fruit or meat. He not only gave his goods, but labor as well. He helped many others with farming their fields, taking care of their animals or pruning trees and in some cases chopping them down. 

Ramon was full of life and laughter. He loved life and always kept an optimistic outlook. Our family was lucky enough to be able to travel to Fruniz where his sister Inez and her family still live along with many other family members and friends. We were all together for the first time in one place and are so thankful we had that trip and time together before his passing. The memories and time we had in the Basque country will forever be remembered and cherished. Ramon was loved by many and will be greatly missed by all.

Ramon was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his brother Fulgencio (Margaret) and sister Inez (Jon). Nieces Teresa (Mike) and Elena (Tuck). Nephews Miguel (Mandy), Urtzi (Idurre), Arnotz(Itxaso). Great nephews and nieces Jordan, Tucker, Zachary, Mikey, Luke, Intza, Izei, Benot, Laura, Julia and Katherine. 

Funeral will be held January 8th 11:00 a.m. at Holy Apostles Catholic Church 6300 N Meridian Rd. There will be a viewing at the church from 10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m.

Donations can be made to the Basque Center or Basque Museum, 611 W. Grove St., Boise, ID 83702.

(Published in Idaho Statesman on Jan. 6, 2016)