Obituaries

Todd Byers, District 6 archaeologist

Caltrans District 6 Archeologist Todd Byers and his 14-year-old son, Brayden, died Saturday Nov. 12, 2016, in a hiking accident near Shaver Lake in Fresno County.

Byers, 49, worked in Caltrans’ Environmental Division for the last nine years. He had a great sense of humor and was a dedicated employee who taught himself and his coworkers how to use Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping software.

For several years, Byers played on Caltrans’ softball team. He also played in a band, loved food (including barbecue and carne asada tacos) and enjoyed making things out of old wood.

“He was the ultimate team player at work and was someone his co-workers could turn to when they needed help on a project or assignment,” said Cory Burkarth, Caltrans District 6 public information officer. “Our thoughts and prayers are with Todd’s wife, family and friends during this difficult time.”

Brayden was a ninth-grade student at Clovis High School. The two are survived by wife and mom, Lisa, and three children and siblings; Alyssa, Mariah and Bryce.

The California Transportation Foundation is collecting donations for the family at www.transportationfoundation.org/donate. Please notate that the donation is for the Byers family.

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Manuel Ramirez, District 6 civil transportation engineer

Caltrans District 6 Civil Transportation Engineer Manuel Ramirez, who worked in the Office of Encroachment Permits for the last 16 years, unexpectedly passed away at home on Dec. 6.  Manuel previously worked in Design and had more than 22 years of state service. 

Manuel grew up in Hanford, California, and was an extreme fan of the Minnesota Vikings. He loved music, and played drums and guitar. He was known for cooking trial Thanksgiving turkeys before the big day just so the “real” turkey would be perfect.  

Manuel is survived by his adult son, Derek; his daughter-in-law, Courtnie; and three granddaughters: Addison, 12; Rylie 8; and Baylie, 3.