05/10/2002
William Ramsay (Bill) was born January 5, 1924, in Glendora. Calif., to George Nathan Ramsay and Minnie Rosetta Manhardt Ramsay. He died Friday, May 10, 2002 in Prescott, Ariz.
He is survived by his wife, JoAn Monroe Ramsay; son James William Ramsay of Lyons, Colo.; daughter Janet Ann Ramsay Burt of Interlochen, Mich.; granddaughter Celeste Annapurna Ramsay of Portland, Ore.; and sister Ella Ramsay Derby of Cave Junction, Ore.
Bill was raised in Knoxville, Iowa, served in World War II in the 424th Infantry, 106th Division, and survived the battle of the Bulge. He received his degree in Agriculture Education at Iowa State University.
The war years had created a burning desire to better the world's ability to feed itself. Six years as Extension Director in Iowa prepared him to join the AID programs overseas. Bill then worked in Iran, Nigeria, Afghanistan and Tanzania, educating people in better agriculture methods. The Agriculture Extension Programs he established in Northern Nigeria during his seven years there are still operating.
The Ramsays traveled the back roads of many countries, getting to know the people and seeing as much of this fabulous world as was possible. Remembering all the events in pictures and letters added much to his life.
In Prescott Bill was active in the Lions Club until bad health intervened. He also built sets and acted in plays in Prescott Fine Arts Theatre. Every show and concert cast wanted Bill to attend, for his enthusiasm, his hearty laugh and "Bravos!" delighted the participants.
In recent years he found the Scots of Prescott, and mustered his strength to attend as many events as he could. He thoroughly enjoyed looking at the photos, videos and books of places he enjoyed.
The family requests no flowers, but prefers donations to Prescott Fine Arts Association, Diabetes Research, and Alzheimer Research.