Ramon Toves Terlaje, lovingly known as “Moe,” “Ray,” and “Papa,” Familian Chaka, was called home to our Heavenly Father on Thursday, June 18th, 2026, in Colorado Springs, Colorado. He passed peacefully at the age of 81, surrounded by the love and presence of his family. Originally from Yona, Guam, Ramon lived an extraordinary life rooted in Faith, Family, and devoted service to our nation.
In his eternal rest, Ramon is reunited with his parents Jesus Castro and Emelia Gogo Toves Terlaje; grandparents Jose Salas and Maria Castro Terlaje, and Ramon Siguenza and Isabel Gogo Toves; siblings Juanita Terlaje, Anthony Terlaje, Jose “Pedo” Terlaje, Jesse Terlaje, and Lydia Terlaje Perez; former wife Cynthia Bell Terlaje; parents-in-law Clarence and Evelyn Wolfe; former parents-in-law Jack and Joan Bell; and brother-in-law Barry Wolfe.
Ramon honorably served in the United States Army for 30 years, rising to the distinguished rank of Command Sergeant Major, the highest enlisted rank. His unwavering courage carried him through three tours in the Vietnam War and service in the Gulf War. A highly decorated Senior Enlisted Leader, he earned numerous commendations, including the Legion of Merit and two Bronze Stars. Following his military career, he continued his dedication to public service, retiring as the Deputy Director of AmeriCorps NCCC.
A man of deep and steadfast Faith, Ramon joyfully shared the teachings and traditions of the Catholic Church as a Catechist and as a leader of Perpetual Adoration at Holy Apostles Catholic Church. He was a respected and beloved presence within the U.S. military community, as well as the CHamoru and Samoan communities. He will be remembered for his unmatched work ethic, his beautifully maintained yard, and his love for hosting large gatherings filled with laughter, food, and family.
Ramon’s legacy lives on in the hearts of his family, especially his wife Janine Marie Terlaje; his children and grandchildren:
Kevin James Terlaje (Devin Scott); Maranda Lynn and Gregory Salatielu Anetone (Ramon Jay and Elena Nicole, Justin Ramon and Karly Ryan, Jaiden Salatielu, Isalei Emaelia); Tiffany Isabel and Joseph Boi Saekoaleo (Vanessa Isabel, Braylon Saanram).
Great-grandchildren: Leilani Rae’Ann, Nohea Kai, Zaydon Ray, Ha’ani Nevaeh, and Isaiah Fransico.
He is also lovingly remembered by his siblings and their spouses:
Jose “Pedo” (t) and Florentina Terlaje; Lydia (t) and Greg Perez; Elizabeth and Tony Cruz; Edward and Rose Terlaje; Jesse (t) and Rose Terlaje; Frank and Sheri Terlaje; Julie and Ken Williams, and by his brothers- and sisters-in-law Mac and Corina Wolfe.
He will also be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his many cousins, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, godchildren, and close friends. Ramon’s life was a testament to service, faith, and love. His memory will continue to guide and inspire all who were blessed to know him.
Open Casket Viewing, Friday, July 3rd,2026
Shrine of Remembrance 1730 E. Fountain Blvd, Colorado Springs, CO 80910
3:00-4:00 p.m. (Family Only) 4:00-7:00 p.m. (Public Viewing)
Services will be held Tuesday, July 7th, 2026
Holy Apostles Catholic Church
4925 North Carefree Circle, Colorado Springs, CO 80917
Divine Mercy Rosary 9:30 a.m., followed by Closed Casket Viewing until 11:00 a.m.
Mass Start 11:00 a.m.
Followed by Burial at Pikes Peak National Cemetery
10545 Drennan Rd., Colorado Springs, CO. 80925
Reception at The American Legion Post 38
6685 Southmoor Dr, Fountain, CO. 80817
The Buckley SFB military Retiree Activities Office (RAO) would like to offer our sincere condolences and our gratitude for CSM Terlaje’s 30 years of distinguished service to our country in the Army. If you would like help with any matters related to casualty assistance, Defense Finance & Accounting Service, Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP), Veterans Affairs (VA), etc. you can contact our office on Buckley SFB at 720-847-6693 or raobuckley@gmail.com. The RAO is staffed by volunteers, all military retirees themselves, and our sole purpose is to provide assistance to any military retirees and surviving spouses/family members with anything related to their military service and/or benefits, in particular during difficult times such as this. We are deeply sorry for your loss.
Steve Young
Lt Col, USAF, Ret
Director, Buckley SFB RAO
My sincere condolences from me and my family. We didn’t spend much time with Ramon but if we had a little time together we would certainly feel his sincerity and love of family and more so his love and respect for God. He was an admirable man of God.