Tribute for beloved veterinarian

By Rose Sgarlato
SPARTA — Celebrating a man’s life and his love for animals is the theme this St. Patrick’s Day at Mohawk House where family and friends will gather to honor Dr. Michael Ramieri.
The well-respected veterinarian, owner of Advanced Veterinary Care in Franklin, Ramieri passed away suddenly on January 24 at age 44. His wife Terri and their three children were shocked and deeply saddened by the loss, as were as well a community of people and four-legged friends who found Ramieri to be the consummate professional and all-around good guy.
Festivities at Mohawk House on Saturday, Mar.17 will kick off at noon, with live entertainment at 4 pm featuring special guests the Morris County Police Pipers & Drummers. Seasonal St.Patrick’s Day fare and, of course, plenty of beer will be on the menu.
The evening will go on with a tribute to Ramieri starting at 6 pm, Musical entertainment will be provided by powerhouse local band Blush. Ramieri had ties to the band and was slated to be its new base player with a debut performance at Mohawk House.
To honor Ramieri’s dedication to animals, donations will be accepted towards the Sussex County Food Pantry’s efforts to collect food for pets. People can drop off canned cat food, dry dog food, pet treats or toys at Mohawk House from Friday to Sunday.
There is no entry fee for the band, but a suggested donation of pet food, pet treats or pet toys is welcomed. People can also donate money, all of which will go to the Sussex County Food Pantry.
Carol Novrit, county director of Social Services, said the pantry feeds over 2,000 people a month in Sussex County, and pets are part of many families.
“It all stays in Sussex County," Novrit said. "We have many people who will feed their pets first before feeding themselves. And we are always short of pet food. Cat food is always an issue. A lot of elderly live at home, and pets keep them company.”
Steve Scro, owner of Mohawk House wanted to honor the memory of Ramieri and connect the event to benefitting pets. St. Patrick's Day presented a great opportunity and Scro is looking to continue building awareness on pet well-being.
“My wife and I love this because we have a local, working farm," Scro said. "We have always embraced the love for supporting animals.”
Terri Ramieri expressed gratitude to Scro and the many other people who have shown support for her family and her husband's legacy.
“Michael Ramieri was a person who gave back to our community," she said. "And in light of the unfortunate recent events, we are celebrating his life and love of animals by taking optional donations for the Sussex County Food Pantry to feed all the hungry dogs and cats of needy families in our area. I could not be more grateful for the outpouring of support from the local community since my husband’s tragic death. Taking this opportunity to pay it forward would’ve made him so proud. I could not think of a better way to honor his memory and to celebrate him as well as his contribution to our community.”
Contact the Mohawk House at <URL destination="http://www.mohawkhouse.com. ">www.mohawkhouse.com.