SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 1210

In Memory

of

Fernando Ramirez

WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas joins the citizens of Raymondville in mourning the loss of Fernando "Freddy" Ramirez, who died May 14, 2011, at the age of 71; and

WHEREAS, He was born May 11, 1940, at La Parra Ranch in Sarita, Texas, to Emilio and Natalia Ramirez; he started a family with his wife, Angie, the greatest love of his life, and they had three children; he began working for Brown and Haynes, Incorporated, in 1961 and rose from washing cars to being the service manager who could always find a way to get a job done; and

WHEREAS, He found his second calling when he became a volunteer firefighter with the Raymondville Fire Department in 1974; he held various positions with the department and was selected as assistant fire chief in the late 1980s, eventually becoming fire chief and fire marshal; he was a member of the Lower Rio Grande Valley Firefighters' and Fire Marshals' Association and served on its executive board in several capacities; in 1999, he was selected as the Texas State Firefighter of the Year, and he retired from firefighting in 2008; in his retirement, he found another job which he greatly enjoyed, working as a gate guard at the King Ranch; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Ramirez was involved with numerous organizations in the community, many of which sought his advice and guidance; he was a member of the parish council of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church and a member of the Knights of Columbus Council in Raymondville; he was elected to the Raymondville Independent School District board of trustees in 1978 and served with dedication for 17 years; and

WHEREAS, A hardworking professional, a courageous firefighter and chief, and a dedicated family man, Freddy Ramirez was truly an asset to his community, and he was widely respected and admired; he was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, and he leaves behind memories that will be treasured forever by his family and all those who had the good fortune of knowing him; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 82nd Legislature, hereby extend sincere condolences to the bereaved family of Fernando Ramirez: his loving wife of 52 years, Angelita Ramirez; his sons, Mike, David, and Ronnie Ramirez; his grandsons, Gabriel and Daniel; and his brother, Raul Ramirez; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for his family as an expression of deepest sympathy from the Texas Senate, and that when the Senate adjourns this day, it do so in memory of Fernando Ramirez.

Lucio

________________________________

President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on May 26, 2011, by a rising vote.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate