Johnnie Santana Ramirez passed away on Tuesday, May 24, 2022, in Manteca, CA. He was 93 years old.  Mr. Ramirez served in the US Army from January 1951 to July 1955, earning two purple hearts during his tours in Korea. He was later a member and leader at the local VFW in the late 1960’s, 70’s, and early 80’s. He last worked at the Sharpe Army Depot, and retired from federal service in 1988.

Both Johnnie and Jennie Ramirez had the ball park snack shack, also lead the parade for 15 years he started the VFW Club in Ripon. Mr. Ramirez was born in Atwater, CA, and lived in various places on the California coast and central valley throughout his lifetime. He moved with his wife and children to Ripon, CA, in the mid-1960’s, and stayed in the area for nearly 60 years, the remainder of his life. He and his wife were beloved leaders in the local area community for decades.

Mr. Ramirez was preceded in passing by his late wife, Jennie Ramirez, in 1999, after 43 years of marriage; and two of his children, Laura Ruth Ramirez and Johnnie Andrew Ramirez.       Mr. Ramirez is survived by his daughter, Shirley Ann Walker, five grandchildren,  Lorraine Ramirez, Nick Walker, Noelle Weiner, Amanda Silva, and Jacob Walker, and several great grandchildren, as well as a niece and several nephews. He had also found love again with Jeri Behrbaum, who continues to live in Manteca, CA.

   Deegan-Ripon Memorial Chapel is honored to serve the Ramirez family. A committal service and burial was held at the San Joaquin Valley National Cemetery in Santa Nella, CA, on Wednesday, June 15, 2022, at 11:30 a.m. Family and friends are welcome to attend. Flowers may be sent to Deegan-Ripon Memorial Chapel, and tributes may be offered on their website

Manteca (Calif.) Bulletin

Thursday, June 16, 2022