Anthony (Tony)  J. Ramirez, 60, of Rancho Santa Margarita, California, passed away on June 1, 2014.

Tony was born in Sidney, Nebraska on April 7, 1954 to Raymond S. and Maria Ramirez.  He went to High School in Sidney and attended college in Denver, where he received his nursing degree in 1994. He worked as a nurse and also held roles in healthcare management, serving as Director of Nursing and, most recently, Director of Clinical IT with Skilled Healthcare, LLC in Foothill Ranch, California. Although his career path led him to management positions, Tony’s true passion remained direct patient interaction and hands-on patient care.

Tony was an avid animal lover who was active in dog rescue. He volunteered with Boxer Rescue Los Angeles and regularly opened his home to homeless Boxers while the rescue worked to place them into permanent, loving homes. Tony enjoyed cooking, baking and growing orchids.

Those who knew Tony will always remember and cherish his kindness, optimism, sense of humor and infectious laugh. Tony’s battle with cancer began in December, 2012 and it was a battle he fought with unrelenting strength, courage and grace.

Tony is survived by his partner of 26 years, Mark Lewis, sister Rosemarie Gray and her husband David, son Mario Ramirez, daughters Michelle Ramirez and Melissa Naasko and her husband Benjamin, 11 grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews, and his dog Monkey. He was preceded in death by brother Raymond C. Ramirez, Jr. and parents Raymond S. and Maria Ramirez.

Memorial donations may be made to Boxer Rescue Los Angeles, 17514 Ventura Blvd. Suite 201, Encino, CA 91316 or via www.boxer-rescue-la.com.