Obituary of Jose Ramirez

Jose Ramirez, 92, of Blue Island, IL passed from this life peacefully on May 24, 2025.

He is the beloved partner of Janet Espinosa for over 12 years and the former husband of Mary (née Osterkamp). Jose is the loving father of Jose “Kukie”, Marta (Bill) Krug, and Pedro “Pete” (Marlene).  He is the cherished grandfather of Armando (Michelle), Isabella, Will (Bridgette) Krug, George Krug, Maria Krug, Elizabeth, Philip (Kristen), and Jim (Elizabeth).  Jose is the proud great grandfather of Devin, Sam, Tyler, Miles, Monroe, Gaius, Dalton, and Henry.  He is also a valued part of his adopted U.S. Family, the Sanchez’s; the late Gregory, the late Josefina, Tom, Nena (Dennis), Bill (Kathy), Margarita “Kani” (Jim), and Lori (Henry).  He is the dear brother of Misael and was preceded in death by his siblings, Jesus, Francisco, Enedina, Margarita, Santiago, Eusebio, Rafael, Miguel, Lorenzo, and Marta.  Jose is the loving uncle to many nieces and nephews.  He leaves many other friends and family members to cherish his memory.

Jose was born July 16, 1932 in Michoacan, Mexico.  Originally a migrant worker, Jose came to America in search of a better life and found a new beginning with the Sanchez family, who embraced him as one of their own. Through hard work and determination, he built a meaningful career—first as a mechanic, and later advancing to become a welder, which he took great pride in mastering. Jose also truly valued education and earned his GED high school diploma in his 40s!  In addition, he encouraged many to pursue higher education.

Jose had a deep love for golf and, after retirement, continued to share that passion while working at Cog Hill Golf Course. A devoted family man, he was most proud of the love he gave and received from his children, grandchildren, extended family, and his adopted U.S. family. He enjoyed coaching soccer as a young man and subsequently enjoyed attending his grandchildren’s sports events and other activities. Jose will be remembered for his strength, his hard work, his warmth, and his unwavering dedication to those he loved.

Visitation for Jose will be held at Krueger Funeral Home, 13050 Greenwood Avenue, Blue Island, on Sunday, June 1st from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM.
Chapel prayers will begin Monday at 8:45 AM, followed by Holy Mass at St. Benedict Church/St. Mary Magdalene Parish, 2339 York Street, Blue Island at 9:30 AM.
Interment will follow at St. Benedict Cemetery in Crestwood, IL.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to San Miguel School, 1954 W. 48th Street, Chicago, IL (773)890-1481.