ROBERT “Bob” G. RAMM

Robert “Bob” G. Ramm, age 91, of Maple Park, passed away surrounded by the love and memories of his family, Monday, August 21, 2023.

He was born April 19, 1932, to loving parents, Claude and Margaret Ramm in Elgin, IL.

Bob grew up on the family farm that had been passed down for generations. He attended a one-room school house and then Burlington High School, graduating in 1950.

He was Valedictorian of his class, captain of the basketball team and made an impression as a member of the track team. His connection to his high school days were never farther than the jockstrap he kept as a memento, much to the chagrin of his family, and often remarked upon by Bob in various stories. A scholarship to N.I.U., was also a proud memory of Bob’s and though he never took advantage of it and stayed on running the farm, it was a testament to his intellect and hard scholastic work over his high school years.

Nellie Boxley had an active social life and loved to cut a rug at the Blue Moon. It was there that she caught the eye of Bob Ramm. He swept her off her feet, both figuratively and sometimes literally, until waltzing down the aisle on June 9, 1962. They began their new life on the family farm on Ramm Rd where they worked as hard as they played. They were blessed with two daughters, Rachel and Denise, which made their family complete.

A fourth-generation farmer who put over 70 years into the soil alongside his brother John, as well his nephews and daughter, Bob was a classic example of a hard-working farmer made good. Bob was also carpenter for Howard B. Thomas and Son Construction for over 30  years. He was known for his intellect and quick wit. He could figure out how much chemical to take to the field before anyone else could find a calculator.  When it came to witty sayings, “Drier than a popcorn fart” was a favorite of Bob’s and one of the few that is “safe for all audiences” as well as a countryside of friends.  

Bob was an arrowhead hunter extraordinaire who was adept at sniffing out the best finds with the least work. His huge garden was a boon to the shelves of his kitchen and whether fresh or canned, each delectable piece was delicious. Bob was there for every activity his daughters became a part of. Most of all, socializing with family and friends was where he shone the brightest. He captured a room at a glance and celebrated each minute while being surrounded by his nearest and dearest.

He was a lifetime and faithful member of the Congregational Church of Lily Lake, the John Deere 2- cylinder club and the Kane County Farm Bureau.

He now leaves two daughters: Denise (Chris) Lenz and Rachel (Glenn) Hofer; two grandchildren: Claude and John Lenz; step-granddaughter, Leigh Ann (Jake) Tysiak; two sisters-in-law, Charlene Ramm, Sylvia (Fred) Sassone; one brother-in-law, James G. Boxley, who was Bob’s “bonus son” and considered a part of the family; special nephews: David J. Ramm, Charles P. Ramm and Paul (Lena) Ramm;

He now joins his parents, Claude and Margaret Ramm; his wife, DeNelda (Boxley) Ramm; his brother, John D. Ramm; brother-in-law, Robert Boxley; one sister, Marion Ramm.

A memorial visitation from 12-3 p.m., Saturday, September 23, 2023, at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St. Elburn, IL 60119.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in his name to the Northern Illinois Food Bank or your favorite charity. Memories and  tributes may be forwarded to the same address, the Conley Funeral Home Facebook Page, or at www.conleycare.com.