James M. Ramirez, age 94, of Romeoville, IL, passed away on March 2, 2026, with his loving family by his side.

Born on November 27, 1931, James grew up in Chinatown, Chicago, rising from humble beginnings to build a life defined by hard work, loyalty, and devotion. A proud Chicagoan, he was a lifelong fan of the White Sox, Bears, and Bulls. Determined to create his own path, James put himself through night school at Northwestern Business College and went on to join Teamsters Local Union 710 in the early 1950s. Through decades of dedication and leadership, he rose through the ranks and retired in 1997 as President of the Local 710.

James's greatest passion, however, was always his family. As the family patriarch, he cherished every moment spent with his children. He never missed a baseball game played by his beloved late son, James Ramirez Jr, cheering him on with immense pride. He treasured time spent cooking steaks and smoking cigars with his eldest late son, Raymond Ramirez.

He held a deep, lifelong bond with his siblings: the late Jesse Ramirez, the late Bridget Kowalski, the late Tony Ramirez, the late Richie Ramirez, and the late Louis Ramirez. He is survived by his loving sister Irene Asa and brother Lenny Ramirez, and he was a cherished uncle to many nieces and nephews.

James married the love of his life, Sharon Ramirez, who preceded him in death. Together, he provided unwavering love, guidance, and support to her daughters, Kristen (Michael) Krause and the late Kerry Weber. For more than 40 years, James was a devoted grandfather to Ashley O'Brien; Tyler (Ashley) O'Brien; Alexis O'Brien; Jessica, Paige, Madisyn, Annie, Emilee, and Lacie Krause; and a proud great-grandfather to Thomas Slanicky; Noah, Alex, and Nathaniel O'Brien; and Lainey Garcia.

James will be remembered by all who knew him as a kindhearted, honorable, and generous man. His presence made life brighter for everyone around him. He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

Funeral services for James will be held on Thursday, March 5, 2026, at Farkas Funeral Home, 3201 W. Jefferson Street, Joliet, IL at 6:00 pm. Visitation will be held from 3:00 pm until time of services. Per his wishes, cremations rites will be accorded following services. Inurnment will be held at a later date to Woodlawn Memorial Park II (Hills of Rest).