Ramon A. Minella

Ramon A. Minella ("Ray") passed away on April 16, 2023.  He is survived by his children Tammi Shoemaker and Tara Dilley.  He was the loving grandfather of Cody (Kristyn), Nick (Kendra), Alex (Madelyn), Elise (Tanner), and Kylie and great grandfather of Reid, Camille, Brinlee, and Wren.  He was a caring brother of Joyce and Dan.  He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 55 years, Patricia Minella (nee Collinsworth), his daughter Gina Minella, and his parents Al and Dorothy Minella.

Ray was a devoted family man, proud Italian, and animal lover that never met a stranger.  He grew up in the Cincinnati area, graduating from Purcell High School and later the University of Cincinnati with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology.  He played football at UC as a walk-on offensive lineman, and his hobby of weightlifting eventually earned him the nickname of “shoulders” from some of his in-laws. He was proud of his strength – using it as a bouncer at a nightclub (where he met his wife), to win arm wrestling competitions, and to crack the knuckles of any unsuspecting male that shook hands with him! Ray loved westerns and scary movies; all things Halloween; the beach;  watching the Reds, Bengals, UK, OSU, and FC Cincinnati; his beloved pets (Ginger, his golden doodle, was his comfort after his wife passed); and cheering on his children and grandchildren in dance and sports, often using his signature, deafening whistle.

He missed his “Trish” every minute of every day after her death 18 months ago.  Although the family is saddened by his passing, we are also happy that they have been reunited, on the eve of her birthday no less.  Rest in peace, Daddy/Pops/Papa/Brother…your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure; you re loved beyond words and missed beyond measure.

Visitation will be held Monday, April 24, 2023 from 6-8 PM at Hodapp Funeral Home, 8815 Cincinnati Columbus Rd., West Chester, OH 45069. Mass of Christian Burial will be held Tuesday, April 25, 2023 at 10:30am at St. Cecilia, 3105 Madison Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45209. Burial will follow at Gate of Heaven Catholic Cemetery.