Ramon Mariano Cestero MD, CPI, FACOG

With heavy hearts, we share the passing of Ramon M. Cestero (affectionately known as Ray or Moncho), who passed away peacefully in his home on January 27, 2025, with his beloved wife, Gretchen, by his side. He is survived by his wife Gretchen, his sons Ramon (wife Erin) and Carlos (wife Jennifer), and his loving siblings Angel Rafael Cestero, Maria Elisa (Marely) Cestero Moya, Carmen Laura Cestero de Hernandez, Sandee Horan, and Barbara Orozco.

A dedicated husband, father, physician, mentor, and friend, Ray’s life was defined by his passion for medicine, his love for his family, and his unwavering commitment to excellence. His presence will be deeply missed, but his remarkable legacy will continue to inspire all who knew him.

A Life of Dedication and Service

Ray was born in San Juan, Puerto Rico in 1939. His pursuit of knowledge and excellence began early, graduating with highest honors from Academia Católica before earning his Bachelor of Science, Magna Cum Laude, from the University of Puerto Rico. He then pursued his Doctor of Medicine at the University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine, graduating in 1963.

His medical training continued with a rotating internship and residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University Hospital in Puerto Rico. Ray's commitment to both medicine and service led him to serve in the United States Army National Guard for several years, attaining the rank of Captain in the Medical Corps. He received an honorable discharge in 1967, marking the completion of his military service but never diminishing his sense of duty to others.

A Love Story for the Ages

Ray met his loving wife, Gretchen, in 1992, introduced by mutual friends. Their connection was instant, and later that year, they embarked on their first adventure together, traveling through Spain and attending the famous fire festivals with a group of friends who would remain lifelong companions.

Their love story continued to grow, and in June of 1998, they were married in a beautiful backyard ceremony at their home in Redlands, California. Their love was a partnership built on adventure, mutual respect, and deep companionship. Together, they shared a passion for travel, exploring the world hand in hand. They journeyed across India, Peru, Spain, Great Britain, France, the Czech Republic, and so many more incredible destinations, creating unforgettable memories along the way.

Amid their global explorations, they also filled their home with love, raising a series of beautiful fur sons—the Joeys, who brought them endless joy and laughter.

Cherished Family & Friends

Raised in San Juan, Ray held deep ties to his homeland and made dozens of trips back to visit his cherished family and lifelong friends.

Ray was deeply connected to his fraternity brothers, sharing countless evenings reminiscing about their younger years. Holiday parties in Puerto Rico were legendary, filled with laughter, music, and unforgettable feasts. Ray often entertained guests with his piano playing, filling rooms with warmth and joy. Celebrations often included Apa’s famous lechón.

His friendships were built to last a lifetime—whether it was his childhood friends from Puerto Rico, his medical colleagues, or the many amazing people he met along his travels. His ability to connect with others was one of his greatest gifts, and those connections will forever be part of his legacy.

Even when he couldn't be there in person, Ray made sure to stay connected. Many of his family and friends kept in touch with him through his carefully chosen Jacquie Lawson cards, each one selected with thought and care, a small but meaningful gesture that showed how much he valued the people in his life.

A Passion for the Skies

Along with his many other talents, Ray was also a skilled pilot. In his younger years, he island-hopped through the Caribbean with his commercial pilot’s license, a passion that brought him both adventure and freedom. His love for flying even extended to his sons, as he flew them to Disney World in Florida, creating cherished memories in the sky.

One of Ray’s most legendary stories was the time he successfully piloted his plane home after losing an engine on the way back to Puerto Rico from Florida. With calm precision and unwavering confidence, he navigated the emergency, ensuring the safety of his family and proving once again that he was capable of handling any challenge life threw his way.

A Distinguished Career in Obstetrics and Gynecology

Ray's career in medicine spanned over five decades, impacting thousands of lives through patient care, research, and education. His journey in obstetrics and gynecology began in Puerto Rico, where he practiced at multiple hospitals, including Hospital del Maestro, Auxilio Mutuo, Doctors' Hospital, Professional Hospital, and San Jorge Hospital. He quickly established himself as a leader in his field, becoming Chief of Staff at Hospital del Maestro and later serving as Chair of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the same institution.

In 1978, Ray moved to California, where he continued to excel in his profession. He was an attending physician and teaching faculty at numerous hospitals, including St. Bernardine Medical Center, Community Hospital of San Bernardino, Riverside County Regional Medical Center, and San Bernardino County Medical Center. His leadership roles included Chair and Vice Chair of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and he played a vital role on hospital boards and advisory committees.

Later in his career, Ray became a Clinical Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Director of Colposcopy Services at Arrowhead Regional Medical Center. He was actively involved in mentoring, research, and clinical education, shaping the next generation of medical professionals through his expertise and guidance.

Ray was board-certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology, a Certified Physician Investigator, and a respected member of multiple prestigious medical organizations, including:

• The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) – serving as a Hospital Review Team Leader and Vice Chair of the Committee on Quality Improvement and Patient Safety.

• The American Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology (ASCCP) – where he received the ASCCP Award of Merit and co-chaired the International Section for Humanitarian Outreach.

• The International Federation for Cervical Pathology and Colposcopy, where he contributed to education and training worldwide.

Pioneering Research and Global Impact

Beyond patient care, Ray was a dedicated researcher, contributing to groundbreaking advancements in cervical cancer detection and HPV research. He was the principal investigator for numerous clinical trials, playing a key role in developing innovative screening methods and treatments for cervical cancer and HPV-related diseases. His work was recognized internationally, earning him invitations to present at global medical conferences in the United States, Spain, Mexico, Chile, Paraguay, and beyond.

Ray was also a prolific author, contributing to scientific publications, textbooks, and educational materials that shaped the field of colposcopy, cervical pathology, and women's health. His research has left a lasting impact on early cervical cancer detection and prevention strategies, benefiting patients and physicians worldwide.

A Life Well-Lived and Well-Loved

Despite his demanding career, Ray embraced life with enthusiasm. He had a deep appreciation for international travel, cooking, smoking on his Traeger, the perfect glass of sangria or Spanish rioja, and Sambuca served with three lucky coffee beans —passions he shared with his family and friends. His love for learning extended beyond medicine, always curious about new cultures, cuisines, and experiences.

In his later years, Ray made the cherished decision to move to San Antonio, Texas, to be closer to his family. This time together became a treasured chapter in his life, filled with love, laughter, and precious moments.

Ray’s legacy is one of compassion, excellence, and devotion to others—whether it was his patients, students, or loved ones. His impact on medicine and the lives he touched will be remembered for generations to come.

Honoring Ray’s Wishes

In accordance with Ray’s wishes, there will not be a public service. Instead, the family will hold a small, intimate gathering to honor his life and legacy.

We are deeply grateful for your love, support, and prayers as we navigate this profound loss. Thank you for being a part of Ray’s journey and for keeping his memory alive.