Ramakrishna Ram's Obituary
Ramakrishna Ram was 79 years old when he died on June 28, 2025, from injuries caused by a fall near his home in Walnut Creek, California. His family is deeply saddened and shocked by his sudden death.
He was surrounded by the love of his wife, Jeri, his sister, Jamuna and his brother, Narendra as he took his last breath. Ram, as he was known to his friends, was born on March 8, 1946 in Bengaluru, India. He was the eldest of 4 children of his mother Sarada and father Venkataram Ramakrishna.
He is preceded in death by his mother, father, and sister, Jayashree. Ram valued family and tried to go back to India as much as possible, especially after he retired. His memory will be cherished by his immediate family and numerous cousins who called him "Anna" (elder brother) or Ram Uncle.
Ram was always there for his family, even if he was far away. If someone had a problem or a need, he contacted them and offered to do what he could to help. In that way he was never far from them. Ram was a kind, intelligent and caring man.
He came to the United States in 1971. He completed his higher education at California State University, Northridge, where he received a Master's Degree in Public Health and a Master's Degree in Mass Communications. He worked in several County Health Departments where he led education efforts for smoking cessation, HIV prevention and other public health issues.
He left the public health system and found his best fit as Director of Health Education for Kaiser Oakland where he worked for more than 20 years. Ram met his wife, Jeri, at college and they were married for 43 years.
Ram had an adventurous spirit and loved to travel. He and Jeri traveled all over the world and enjoyed learning about new cultures and meeting people wherever they went. Ram was an excellent photographer and the photo memories of all his trips and adventures are cherished by his family, especially during this time of loss.
While traveling, he appreciated learning about and sampling local foods. He was a good cook himself, and loved variety and quality at the table. When he was younger, he was famous among his friends for his home-cooked "Indian dinners."
From the time computers entered workplaces, Ram had a sustained interest in them. He was a self-taught computer whiz, who was always ready to help others to troubleshoot their way out of problems. During the pandemic, he even built his own computer system from parts.
Five years ago, Ram and Jeri moved to Rossmoor in Walnut Creek where they enjoyed becoming a part of a wonderful community of friends. Because Ram always wanted to participate and effect positive change, he became a member of the HOA Board and helped to make the neighborhood a better place.
The world has lost a lovely man, who made a difference during his time on earth for many people through his good work in health education and through his love for his family and close friends. He will be remembered and sorely missed.
What’s your fondest memory of Ramakrishna?
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Share a story where Ramakrishna's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Ramakrishna you’ll never forget.
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