Johnny Salvador Ramirez Sr. was born on July 31, 1956, at Emanuel Medical Center in Turlock, California. He passed away on March 18, 2026, at Emanuel Medical Center, surrounded by the love of his family. Johnny was a devoted father, grandfather, brother, and friend.
He is survived by his children, Natalie Ramirez Reeves and Johnny Salvador Ramirez Jr., and his son-in-law, David Reeves. He also leaves behind his loving sisters: Kathy Silva; Carol and her husband Donnie Smith; and Joann and her husband Donnie Curtiss. He was a proud grandfather to five grandchildren who meant the world to him: grandsons Jaydan Ramirez and Bryant Reeves, and granddaughters Alyssa Reeves, Audree Ramirez, and Penelope Ramirez. He is also lovingly remembered by his many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and greatnephews.
Johnny had a passion for life that showed in everything he did. In his younger years, he loved racing classic cars, and although he eventually had to step away from racing, he never lost his love for speed. He enjoyed watching NASCAR, drag racing, and wrestling, and he passed that love for cars and fast driving down to his children. He was known for always saying, “put the pedal to the metal,” a phrase that perfectly captured his spirited personality. He treasured the time he spent with his family. He enjoyed going on country drives with his son, listening to music and talking about life, or simply spending time together at the park. He loved spending time with his daughter, and he took pride in “managing” his son-in-law on the grill, always making sure things were done just right. His grandchildren were truly the light of his life. He cherished every moment spent with them— whether it was picking them up for breakfast or lunch, going on drives, or simply being together. Even on days when he wasn’t feeling his best, they still wanted to be by his side. They will always remember their special time with their Papa—his phone calls just to check in, his drivebyes to honk hello, and the simple joy of being together. He faced life’s challenges with incredible strength and determination. Nearly 20 years ago, Johnny experienced kidney failure, and his sister, Joann Curtiss, selflessly donated her kidney, giving him many more years with his family. The Ramirez family is deeply grateful for those extra years of memories with their dad and Papa.
In recent years, he began dialysis, showing unwavering courage as he made the trip three days a week, enduring long hours with quiet strength and resilience. Johnny is preceded in death by his father, Salvador Ramirez, and his mother, Lena Ramirez. He will be remembered as a man of strength and courage who faced life’s challenges head-on. He loved his family, cared for others, had a quick wit, and lived without judgment. His presence, laughter, and love will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
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