David Lujan Ramirez, 96, of Kansas City, Mo., died February 22, 2025, at home of natural causes.

Born on June 17, 1928, in Kansas City, Mo., to David and Trinidad Ramirez, David was a proud veteran of the U.S. Army. He enlisted at 18 in 1946 and served with honor in post-war Japan and the Korean War, attaining the rank of Sergeant First Class. His service was recognized with the Korean Service Medal with four Bronze Service Stars, the U.N. Service Medal, and the National Defense Service Medal.

In 1953, while stationed in Fort Lewis, Washington, David married Josepha Pulido, the love of his life. As a civilian, he returned to Kansas City with his wife, where they raised their large family. A lifelong learner, David was an avid reader and embraced technology, using the Internet and his mobile phone to stay connected with family. He had a keen interest in local and national politics and a love for nature, often tending his garden or enjoying camping and fishing in western National Parks and Forests.

David is survived by his sisters Lupe Rios and Velia Ochoa, and his ten children: David R. Ramirez, Zita Ramirez (John Rieder), Janet Baggett, Vicky Baggett (George), Gloria Smith (Kevin), Susan Ramirez (John Redmond), Alfred Ramirez (Kristi), Michael Ramirez (Laurie), Sara Ramirez (Sean), and Stephanie Lindsey (William). He also leaves behind 19 grandchildren. He was predeceased by his wife, Josepha Pulido Ramirez , and brother Ishmael Ramirez.

A celebration of David's life will be held on Friday, May 9th, at 9:30 a.m. at Our Lady of Perpetual Help (Redemptorist) Catholic Church in Kansas City. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to The Nature Conservancy in his memory.

"He who works with his hands is a laborer. He who works with his hands and his head is a craftsman. He who works with his hands and his head and his heart is an artist."  - Saint Francis of Assisi