Obituary of Kenneth Charles Ramsdell

Kenneth Charles Ramsdell, a retired Custodian of the Burlington School System, passed away after a brief illness on Saturday afternoon, February 10, 2018. He was 72 years old. Ken was born in Woburn. He was raised and educated in Burlington and a 1964 graduate of Burlington High School. After High School he immediately enlisted in the United States Army serving his country during the Vietnam War. He served two tours of service the first one from 1964 to 1967. His first tour ended on September 20, 1967 and he immediately reenlisted on September 21, 1967 serving his country until 1971. Ken was the recipient of the National Defense Service Medal with two O/S Bars which was awarded for his serving during combat, the Vietnam Service Medal, the Army Commendation Medal and the Vietnam Campaign Medal with 60/Device. Ken was an active lifetime member of the American Legion Burlington Post 273, and an officer of Burlington's Allied Veteran's Council. He was involved with these organizations for over 30 years, dedicating his time to improving the lives of Veterans and their families. He was currently serving as the Finance Officer for the American Legion and was Post Commander in 1996 as well as a past member of the Executive Board and Post Adjutant. Ken served as Honor Guard at many of the parades and ceremonies throughout the years. If there was an event honoring Veterans, he would be there. He was also a member of the July 4th Parade Committee. Ken volunteered for many of the charitable events that the American Legion participated in such as staffing the wish tree at the Burlington Mall for People Helping People. Nothing made him happier than spending time with his Legion Buddies. Every year they took golf trips, traveling to various places in and out of the country. He also enjoyed watching the Patriots, the Red Sox or one of the other Boston Sports teams. Ken was employed as a Custodian in the Burlington School System for over 32 years. He worked at the High School, Memorial School and Pine Glen School. He took pride in his work and enjoyed his daily interaction with the teachers, administration and the students. His family was an important part of his life and he had a close relationship with his three sisters. He never missed a family gathering and was very proud to be an Uncle and a Great Uncle. He also enjoyed being at his home working on his vegetable and flower gardens. Ken will be remembered as a quiet, humble professional, and will be sorely missed by his family and the Veteran community of Burlington Ken was the beloved son of the late Robert and Anna Ramsdell. He was the loving brother of Judith A. Osborne & her husband Brian of Burlington, Susan E. Ramsdell of Billerica & her partner Vinnie Miraglia of Malden, Marcia Lancelotte & her husband John of Burlington and the late Robert E. Ramsdell. Also survived by 6 nieces and nephews & 7 great nieces and nephews. Funeral from the Edward V Sullivan Funeral Home, 43 Winn St., BURLINGTON (Exit 34 off Rt. 128/95 Woburn side) on Saturday, Feb. 17 at 10 a.m. Followed by Graveside Services at Chestnut Hill Cemetery, Burlington at 11 a.m. Visiting hours Friday 4:30 – 7:30 pm. Memorials in Ken’s name may be made to the New England Shelter for Homeless Veterans, 17 Court St., Boston, MA 02108 www.nechv.org