The eighth annual Mike Ramos Memorial Bowling Tournament was held this past Saturday night, bringing together more than 50 participants from the Synagogue of the Suburban Torah Center (SSTC) in Livingston. A spirited competition at Hanover Lanes, in memory of a beloved community member, was a lively tribute to Mike Ramos, z”l, a long-time gabbai, Men’s Club president, and a quiet but steadfast pillar of chesed in the community. Mike’s sudden passing in 2015 left a void that the tournament continues to honor by celebrating his legacy of selfless service and dedication.
Mike was not only known for his leadership roles within the shul but also for his remarkable achievements as a semi-professional bowler. His passion for the sport provided a fitting foundation for this annual event, which sees participants of all ages come together for a night of fun and friendly competition. With dairy snacks and refreshments available, as well as the famous East Hanover Lanes bar, attendees enjoyed a festive atmosphere as they came together to celebrate Mike’s memory.
In the tournament, teams competed in two rounds with their average scores from the first round determining the top four teams that qualified for the final showdown. After a thrilling second round, the team with the highest average was crowned the champion. This year’s winners, “The Deli Rollers,” proudly took home the title, continuing the tradition of spirited competition. Later this year, the winning team will be awarded custom bowling shirts and a trophy in a ceremony before the congregation.
As always, the Ramos family was in attendance, not only to bowl but to reminisce about Mike and the countless ways he touched the lives of those around him. The event served as a fundraiser for the Mike Ramos Memorial Scholarship, an annual award given to a high school junior who demonstrates the same humility, community spirit and behind-the-scenes dedication that Mike exemplified in his life.
The scholarship, presented each spring, is an opportunity for young people to be recognized for their commitment to helping others and giving back to the community. The award serves as an accolade for the recipient, who can proudly include it in their college applications.
Seth Leeds, chair of the Ramos Committee, shared his thoughts on the significance of the event: “It’s incredibly important for our community to simultaneously honor and memorialize someone who was very special and did so many things for us without anyone knowing while also creating an opportunity for our youth to strive for something that rewards them for emulating that behavior. The legacy of Mike Ramos will continue to live on in Livingston through a really fun event that he would have loved while also promoting a dedication to community chesed for our kids.”
As the event concluded, it was clear that Mike’s legacy is alive and well in the Livingston community. His dedication to others and his love for bowling continue to inspire and unite people of all ages, ensuring that his spirit remains an enduring part of the fabric of the community.
