Ulises Leonardo Vasquez

On Wednesday, July 22, 2025, our beloved Ulises Leonardo Vasquez—a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, nephew, and cherished friend—entered into eternal rest. Freed from the pain, suffering, and burdens of this world, he was joyfully reunited with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, who lovingly welcomed him home. Ulises leaves behind a legacy of unconditional love, generosity, and wisdom. Ulises, lovingly known as Leo, was born on November 27, 1944, in Guayaquil, Ecuador, to the late Ulises Vasquez Litardo and Maria Isabel Ramirez Almazan. He grew up surrounded by family and community in Guayaquil. He is survived by the mother of his children and former wife, Mavel Ruano Montoya (affectionately known as Nora), with whom he shared over 45 years of companionship and had three beloved children: Claudia, Eric, and Randy. He is also survived by his children from his first marriage to the late Rosa Mercedes Balladares Bautista: Julissa, Javier, and Leonardo. In addition, he lovingly recognized another daughter, Lourdes Vasquez, as his own. At a young age, Ulises began helping his father in the family business, Farmacia Vasquez, in Guayaquil. As a pharmacy assistant, he helped many in his community with health concerns, earning him the affectionate nickname “El Doctorcito.” He became a trusted source of care and guidance to those around him. In 1985, seeking a new beginning, Ulises emigrated to the United States. He settled in New York City with Nora, where they raised their children in a Christ-centered home and were active members of a Spanish evangelical church in Upper Manhattan. Ulises quickly found work and, through his dedication and excellent customer service, became the manager of a McDonald's restaurant in Lower Manhattan. He held that position for 20 years before transitioning to part-time work at Staples, where he remained employed until the age of 78. He officially retired in 2023 and relocated to Maryland. Despite retiring, Ulises never saw himself as old—his energy and sharpness remained intact. He often encouraged others to take care of their health, recommending vitamins and collagen as part of staying youthful. Ulises is survived by his former wife, Mavel Ruano Montoya of Annapolis, Maryland; sons: Leonardo Vasquez Balladares (Patricia) of Spain, Javier Vasquez Balladares of Guayaquil, Ecuador, Eric Vasquez and Randy Vasquez, both of Waldorf, Maryland; and daughters: Julissa Vasquez Balladares (Jimmy) of Guayaquil, Lourdes Vasquez of Spain, and Claudia Furges Vasquez (Chauncey) of Elizabeth City, North Carolina. He also leaves behind a legacy of love through his grandchildren: grandsons Jimmy Gomes Vasquez, Leonardo Vasquez Parra, Leonardo Vasquez Lozano, and Emilio Vasquez Ayovi; granddaughters Andres Zamora Vasquez, Zukira Zamora Vasquez, Maria de los Angeles Gomes Vasquez, Nanelli Vasquez, Nahilin Vasquez, Karen Vasquez Lozano, Gabriella Furges Vasquez, Aurora Furges Vasquez, and Celeste Furges Vasquez; as well as seven great-grandchildren. Ulises is also survived by five brothers: Genaro Ramirez Ramirez, Bolivar Ramirez Ramirez, Eloy Ramirez Ramirez, Gustavo Ramirez Ramirez, and Luis Vasquez Farias; and four sisters: Martha Vasquez Ramirez, Betty Vasquez Ramirez, Elvia Ramirez Ramirez, and Maritza Vasquez Farias; along with many beloved brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, extended family, and countless friends. He was preceded in death by his first ex-wife, Rosa Mercedes Balladares Bautista; his granddaughter, July Vasquez Lozano; his brother, Manuel Vasquez Farias; and his sister, Patricia Vasquez Cuello. A Remembrance Gathering for Ulises will take place at Raymond Funeral Service Chapel on Friday, August 1, 2025. His Viewing will be held from 12:30PM until the time of his Funeral Service at 1:30PM. A special homage will immediately follow. Though our hearts are heavy with sorrow, we, his children, take comfort in knowing that our dear father—whose life was marked by wisdom, kindness, and unwavering love—has finally found peace. His memory will forever live on in our hearts, and we look forward to the day we meet again.

Ulises Leonardo Vasquez

November 27, 1944 - July 22, 2025