Co-Founder, in spirit & legacy

Rocio was born in the remote Pokomchi village of Nisnic in San Cristóbal, Alta Verapaz, Guatemala — the daughter of Bible translators, Beth and Boris Ramírez. One of eleven children, she spent her early years running barefoot with her siblings and village friends, playing in the mud, catching spiders as pets, and bringing home stray dogs. Her childhood was one of freedom, joy, and deep connection to the people and land around her.

As a young girl, Rocio often interpreted for U.S. medical teams visiting Guatemala — early encounters that ignited her passion to serve the sick and vulnerable. These experiences planted seeds of compassion and service that would later bloom in her training as a nurse and midwife.

She later moved to the United States for formal education in nursing, but her heart remained rooted in Guatemala. She dreamed of returning to marry, raise children, and give them the same rich and vibrant childhood she had known. She often said she not only wanted to live and serve in Guatemala — she desired to die and be buried there. Such was her deep love for her people and her home.

After meeting Christian and marrying in Guatemala, the couple committed to building their life together there. Rocio stood faithfully by Christian’s side as he learned the language and adapted to his new surroundings. She supported him with grace, love, and quiet strength.

Yet even in her deep love for Guatemala, Rocio’s devotion to her role as a wife came first. In her own words, she would have given it all up — her homeland, her dreams — if it meant following her husband wherever God would lead him. The Lord, in His kindness, placed within Christian a desire to give Rocio the life she had longed for — not because she insisted, but because she trusted.

Together, they raised their two sons, Romeo and Amadeo, both born at home in unmedicated, peaceful births attended by midwives. Rocio’s view of childbirth was shaped by the gentle wisdom of Ina May Gaskin, and her walk of faith was influenced by spiritual heroines like Elisabeth Elliot.

Though the vision for what would become Rose Milk Bank was born in her heart, Rocio’s deepest and most lasting legacy is not in an organization or initiative — it is in her faithful witness to Jesus Christ. She was a devoted disciple, a loving wife, and a nurturing mother. These roles were her greatest joy and highest calling.

Her life was a radiant testimony of grace, humility, and quiet strength. The legacy she leaves lives on — in every life touched by the mission she helped spark, and in the hearts of those who carry her vision forward with love and reverence.