In a moment that felt more like a home concert than a goodbye, 87-year-old Ramon V. filled the Aspen Dining Room at The Chateau at Gardnerville with the unmistakable sound of his harmonica one last time.
Just two days before his passing in June, Ramon’s final wish came true — he played alongside the friends he cherished most.
“This was the only request Ramon wanted before his next journey,” Executive Director Katie Nichols told The Record-Courier. “This is the reason we do what we do every day, so residents like Ramon can fulfill their soul.”
A longtime engineer and former Bridgeport resident, Ramon built his own home and a life centered around music, family, and resilience. He had been living at The Chateau for six months while undergoing dialysis, supported by his daughters, Teri K. and Nina J. When Ramon made the decision to discontinue treatment, his one wish was simple: to play music with his friends one last time.
The staff quickly made it happen.
East Fork Fire crews gently carried him from his upstairs apartment to the community’s gathering space. There, members of The Library, a local music group from Markleeville, joined in what would become Ramon’s farewell performance.
The room was full — of music, of laughter, of love. Residents, staff, and Ramon’s family swayed along as he jammed for more than an hour. Musically inclined neighbors at The Chateau, many of whom were preparing to attend their first concert at Minden Park later that week, looked on as Ramon led with the same energy he always brought to the room.
After he passed, news of this heartfelt moment spread locally. A clip of his final performance was shared on KOLO TV News 8.
Jessica Maidlow, Community Sales Director, said: “Ramon came home to us when he chose to stop treatment. This is where he wanted to be — with friends, music, and his children nearby. That’s what mattered.”
Cheers to you, Ramon. And thank you for the music.
Where Every Life Is Celebrated with Heart
At The Chateau at Gardnerville, dignity in retirement means more than comfort — it means honoring your story, your passions, and your lifelong dreams. From spontaneous concerts to everyday moments, we go the extra mile to ensure life stays meaningful and fun, right to the end. Let us be the place where your legacy lives on in joy, and schedule a tour today.