Liliana Maria Franco-Ramos

Liliana "Lili" Maria Franco-Ramos, age 17, Mattawan, was born November 23, 1998, in Kalamazoo, MI, and died unexpectedly on November 28th, 2015, in the arms of her mom and dad. At the time of her passing, Lili was a focused, hard-working junior at Mattawan High School and a student in the Early Childhood Careers and Education program at the Van Buren ISD Technical Center. She was also an active member in the Northbridge Youth Group at Northbridge Church in Kalamazoo, MI. Lili had an innate love for all animals, particularly horses. She found solace and goodness in the presence of people and animals alike. Born prematurely, Lili was a fighter from birth, defining strength and repeatedly defying doctors and experts. Undergoing countless medical procedures, she was consistently optimistic through every one, continually inspiring not just those in her inner circle but anyone who knew or heard her story. Her perseverance in the face of on-going adversity was why so many came to see her as a true, authentic superhero. Lili had a gift for making people smile and laugh. Anyone who crossed paths with Lili, whether for five minutes or five years, commented on how she continually greeted the world and everyone in it with a smile. She loved using humor to make others happy, and had a true knack for doing so! Lili also loved Lake Michigan. In any season, but particularly in the summer months, she could frequently be found looking out on the lake, soaking in its peace and radiating her own inner light right back onto the world. Those who are left surviving her death will remember her remarkable capacity for finding beauty in even the darkest of times. Complete acceptance of others and an open heart defined Lili. Her strength, encouragement, hopefulness and joy knew no boundaries. Lili was the perfect example of what one person can do with their one life - give it all away and leave nothing but love behind. Lili is survived by her mother Marta Franco and step-father Scot Young, her father Luis Ramos and step-mother Sandra Ramos, her adoring brothers Joe Maas, Luis and David Ramos and baby sister Daphne Ramos, and her grandparents Jose and Lucia Franco and Martha Ramos. She was preceded in death by grandfather Jesus Ramos. Additionally, Lili leaves behind many aunts, uncles and cousins who loved her dearly. She will be missed by more friends and loved ones than can ever be named. Condolences and donations may be sent to www.lilistrongfund.com. Lili left a true legacy. Friends, family, and the community will forever remember and celebrate Liliana Franco-Ramos and the light she added to our world. She was and will forever be held in our hearts as our fighter girl, our superhero. The family will receive friends on Sunday, December 6, 2015 from 2-4 PM at Mattawan High School followed by a Celebration of Life Ceremony at 4:00 PM in the James A. Weeldryer Auditorium at Mattawan High School. 24959 McGillen Avenue, Mattawan, Michigan.

Visitation Sunday, from 2-4 p.m. Memorial service will commence at 4:00 p.m.