Morris Ramont, 71, passed away peacefully following a heroic 19-month battle with pancreatic cancer.

   Morris was born in Turlock and lived in the area all of his life. He graduated with honors from Denair High School, MJC, and Cal State Stanislaus. He also attended L’Abri Institute in England during the 1980s.

   His many interests included history, traveling [especially in Europe], music, and playing the piano for Denair Friends Church and First Christian Church in Turlock. His passion was gardening and growing flowers. He knew both the regular and botanical names of most flowers.

   Morris was a member of the First Christian Church and loved being part of all the activities. He taught American Literature and Writing for 32 years at Downey High School in Modesto.

   Many were drawn to Morris by his wonderful sense of humor and intelligence, as well as his pride in his Swedish heritage.

   He is survived by his loving wife, Claudia Ramont, his uncle, Stanley Olson, much loved niece and nephew, Becky (Mike) Murrow and Keith (Stephanie) Stapp, 3 great-nephews and one great-niece.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Olga and Eldon Ramont, his sister, Marilyn Stapp, and brother-in-law, Earl Stapp. 

   In keeping with Morris’s wishes, a memorial service will be held at 11 AM on Sat., Sep. 5, at Guardian Angel Columbarium located within Turlock Memorial Park, 425 N. Soderquist Rd. 

   Memorial donations may be made to First Christian Church, 180 S. Denair Ave., Turlock, CA 95380 or Covenant Care Hospice, 1850 Colorado Ave., Turlock, CA 95382.