In Loving Memory of Ramiro “Ram” Chavez

On August 3, 2026, the life of a legend known to many as Ramiro “Ram” Chavez came to an end. Ram was born on December 8, 1945, in Corpus Christi, Texas.

A proud Miller Buc, Ram graduated from Roy Miller High School in 1964 (Hall of Fame Inductee). He went on to attend Del Mar College before earning his bachelor’s degree in Music Education from Texas A&I University in Kingsville, Texas (Hall of Fame Inductee). He later earned his master’s degree in Educational Administration from Corpus Christi State University.

In 1965, Ram formed what would become one of his most beloved musical groups, Ram and the Impalas. Ram could play any instrument handed to him, and he played each one beautifully. Throughout his musical career, he was a part of many bands, including the Freddie Martinez Orchestra and the Eddie Galvan Orchestra, both of which he loved being a part of.

However, Ram and the Impalas held a special place in his heart. He treasured sharing the stage with his beloved brother, Roland, on drums, and his brother-in-law, Alex, on vocals. Ram and the Impalas became a household name in Corpus Christi and throughout many parts of South Texas, leaving an unforgettable mark on the music community.

Ram proudly served in the United States Army from 1967 to 1969 as an Army medic during the Vietnam War, serving with Company C, 7th Battalion, 199th Light Infantry Brigade.

Upon returning home after being wounded in action, Ram never dreaded or hid his wound. Instead, he embraced it and wore it as a badge of honor. His heroism, courage, and dedication to his fellow soldiers earned him numerous military honors, including the Silver Star, Bronze Star—with V devise Valor, Purple Heart, Good Conduct Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with 5 Campaign Stars, Combat Medical Badge and the Presidential Unit Citation Award.

On September 11, 1970, he married the love of his life, Janie Chavez. Together, they built a life filled with family, music, service, education, and love.

Ram carried his love of music to thousands of students across the Coastal Bend, where he earned the beloved nickname “Mr. C.” Throughout his years as an educator, he shared his passion for music and inspired countless students at Moody High School, Cullen Junior High, and Ray High School. He eventually retired in 1997 from Cunningham Middle School with the Cougar Bite in Hand, leaving behind a lasting legacy as an educator, administrator, musician, mentor, and friend to generations of students.

On June 3, 1986, Ram founded what became known across the country as the Veterans Band of Corpus Christi. The band brought together two of Ram’s greatest loves: his love of music and his love of his country. Over the course of nearly 40 years, the Veterans Band became much more than a musical group to Ram—it became his second family. Together, they performed thousands of times throughout the United States, sharing their music and honoring veterans wherever they went.

Among the many memorable performances throughout the band’s history was the honor of performing at President George H. W. Bush’s inauguration in 1989. Through the Veterans Band, he created a lasting legacy that brought music, patriotism, and the spirit of service to countless communities across the nation.

In 1997, Ram went on to work for his dear friend, the late Senator Carlos F. Truan, as a Legislative Aide. He went on to serve as Staff Director for the Texas Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs and Military Installations, where his passion for serving veterans continued to shine.

Ram was an instrumental part in bringing the Coastal Bend State Veterans Cemetery to Corpus Christi, leaving yet another lasting legacy for veterans and their families throughout the Coastal Bend.

He was a proud member of the GI Forum Hector P. Garcia Chapter, the Mayor’s Committee for Veterans Affairs, the Military Order of the Purple Heart, and many other organizations dedicated to serving veterans and the beloved community he called home. Through each organization, Ram continued his lifelong commitment to helping others, advocating for veterans, and making a difference in the lives of those around him.

Ram is preceded in death by the love of his life, Janie; his son, Roman Albert; his parents, Ignacio and Brigida Chavez; his brothers, Rudy, Raul, and Roland; and his sisters, Raina, Ruby, Rosalinda, and Rachel.

Left to cherish his memory and carry on the legacy he leaves behind are his children, Ramiro Chavez; Viola Flores (James); and Rachelle Cintron (Jose); his nine grandchildren, MacKenzie Garcia (Randy), Miale Cook (Peyton), Justin Flores, Jamie Flores, Matthew Chavez, Jenna Flores, Izabella Cintron, Izaak Cintron, and Izaiah Cintron; and his five great-grandchildren, Macie Landry, Luke Landry, Caden Cook, Xayden Garcia, and Caleb Cook. Siblings, Roberto Chavez, Reynaldo Chavez (Gracie), Rosalva Cardenas (Juan), Roger Chavez, and sister-in-law, Mary Del Chavez.

Ram loved spending special time with his grandchildren. He especially enjoyed their Dairy Queen and movie dates, where he loved slipping them a $20 bill. These simple moments became treasured memories that his family will carry with them forever.

Through all of his accolades, awards, and accomplishments, his most cherished legacy was being “Popo.” He was not only Popo to his nine grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, but also to numerous family friends throughout the years. He treated everyone like family and made everyone he encountered feel special—from his favorite waitresses and waiters, to former students, to the employees at the cleaners and the local bakery. He had a way of making everyone feel like they were his friend, because they truly were.

Ram believed in everyone. He always wanted the people around him to shine and become the very best versions of themselves. He never gave up faith in his students, the people who came into his life, or those he loved. His encouragement, kindness, and unwavering belief in others were among the greatest gifts he gave to the world.

Ram will be missed tremendously not only by his family, but by his beloved community and by the countless people whose lives he touched across the nation. His laughter, music, friendship, patriotism, and love will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Veterans Band of Corpus Christi, Texas, in honor of Ram and his lifelong dedication to veterans, music, and his community.

Ram’s family would also like to extend their deepest gratitude to the staff at Bay Area Hospital and Harbor Hospice for the compassionate care they provided during the final 15 days of his life. Their kindness and care meant so much to Ram and his family.

Ram's family warmly invites all who knew and loved him to join them in celebrating his remarkable life and honoring his memory. Family, friends, and community are welcome to gather for visitation on Monday, August 10, 2026, at Most Precious Blood Catholic Church from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM. The Recitation of the Holy Rosary will begin at 7:00 PM.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at 9:00 AM at Most Precious Blood Catholic Church. Following the Mass, family and friends will gather at the Coastal Bend State Veterans Cemetery for the Rite of Committal and Interment with Full Military Honors at 11:00 AM. There, Ram's distinguished military service and unwavering dedication to his country will be honored as he is laid to rest with the dignity and gratitude he so richly earned.

To leave your condolences for the family of Ramiro “Ram” Chavez, share your memories, or visit his tribute wall, please go to www.trevinofuneralhome.net.