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Murdered man's family finds unique way to honor his memory

HANOVER TOWNSHIP, Pa. — A local family is coming full circle just days after its son's killer was sentenced for kidnapping and murder, with the mission of keeping his memory alive.

Kristopher Lott pleaded guilty to assaulting, robbing and killing Ryan Ramirez in August 2016, and then dumping his body in a wooded area in Hanover Township, Washington County.

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"Through this program, we will work together to create a positive impact in Ryan's name," said Shari Ramirez, Ryan's mother.

Rebound 4 Ryan aims to mentor children, while helping Ryan's family create a legacy in his honor.

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"Not to say it made the grief go away, but it eased it because we had something to focus on," said John Ramirez, Ryan's father.

Lott was sentenced to at least 27 years in prison for his involvement in the 21-year-old's death.

"He chose to take a very special person's life and we wanted to make sure that he understood the impact he had on all of us," Shari said. "I just think about his (Ryan's) big smile and how he would have enjoyed being there, working with kids and being with all of us."

Rebound 4 Ryan combines basketball and mentoring for dozens of middle school students at Sto-Rox.

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Ryan's parents told Channel 11 it's a perfect fit because he loved both of those things. The program continues to grow and will begin again next month.

"I always can sense when he's around. He wouldn't miss those. He's there," John said.

The Ramirez family has also created scholarships at Montour and Sto-Rox high schools in Ryan's name.

If you want to learn how to help or be part of Rebound 4 Ryan, read more HERE.

 

Cox Media Group

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