Ramon Esparza

Ramon Esparza Sr., a beloved father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by family on November 22, 2023. Ramon was reunited with his soulmate, Minerva, eleven days after she left this Earth, not missing a Holiday together. Born July 7, 1938, Ramon led a remarkable life filled with love, dedication, and hard work.

His career as a migrant worker shaped Ramon's journey through life. While working as a teenager, he met his future wife,  Minerva Sanchez. The couple spent the rest of their lives together, working side by side for most of their careers. Ramon dedicated six months each year to working in the fields alongside his wife Minerva and their four sons. For many years, the Esparza family worked for Radewall Farms, where they became an integral part of the Radewall family. Ramon was the first one called when a shipment needed to be loaded or unloaded in the middle of the night, and he was ready and willing to help. His willingness to lend a hand without hesitation spoke volumes about his character. Ramon and his family's dedication didn't go unnoticed. The bonds between the two families were so strong that they became like a second family to the Esparzas.

Even though Ramon worked most days of the week, his family was necessary, and they made some priceless memories while working in Michigan. They visited several beaches, the dunes of Silver Lake, Deer Forest in Kalamazoo, and the local flea market. 

When they were back in Weslaco, the couple worked in the produce industry, Interstate Fruit and Vegetable Company, most of their lives. The fruits and vegetables of the Esparza's labor were shipped worldwide. 

When the boys were grown, Ramon, Minerva,  and their son moved to San Antonio, and all worked together at Play by Play. The wholesale outlet provided all of the stuffed animals for Disney World, and the Esparza's traveled to Florida many times. Eventually, Ramon and his family returned home. Ramon continued to work in the produce industry well into his seventies. Ramon didn't believe in retirement. He continued to work in his extensive garden and perfectly landscaped yard for the rest of his life. 

Despite not having formal education, Ramon's determination and love for learning allowed him to become self-taught in various areas of life. He had a remarkable talent for growing anything, nurturing plants from seeds into beautiful blooms. His green thumb brought joy to his loved ones and added beauty to their lives.

Ramon was happiest when his family was together. "Awe, Man, God Bless You All" was a common phrase used to describe how blessed Ramon felt to be surrounded by family. He watched sports, but he wasn't particular. Ramon was a fast fan of any team his boys supported. On rare occasions, Ramon sat down to watch television, enjoying old westerns like Gunsmoke and Bonanza. 

One of Ramon's most pronounced characteristics was his comforting presence, which created an atmosphere of warmth and love within his home. Their house became a hub for family and friends, where laughter resonated, bonds were strengthened, and memories were cherished. Barbecues became a cherished tradition for the Esparza family, with Ramon at the helm, ensuring everyone felt welcome and loved. Ramon leaves behind a legacy of love, loyalty, and resilience. His unwavering commitment to his family and friends will forever inspire all who knew him. 

Ramon is preceded in death by his parents, Abundio and Isabel (Medrano) Esparza, and his loving wife, Minerva, sisters, Ernestina Mancilla, and Paula Garcia, brothers Eulalio Esparza, Miguel Esparza, and Jesus Esparza two baby brothers, Alfonso Esparza and Gilberto Esparza. 

Ramon is survived by his sons, Roland Esparza, Erasmo Esparza (Diana Vargas), Orlando Esparza, and Ramon Esparza Jr. (Brenda); sisters Irene Lusky , Martha Gomez, and Ruth Garza, brothers Ignacio Esparza and Jose Esparza, grandchildren, Danielle Chambers (Eric), Deidre Esparza Pyle (Landon), Martin "Harley" Vara, Roman Esparza, Ariana Esparza, Jeffrey Esparza, Joseph Esparza, Jonathan Gonzalez (Denise), Dylan Esparza, and Danika Esparza, and great-grandchildren, Alyssa and Onofre Gonzalez, Steven Gray, Julian and Amelia Chambers, and Liliana Pyle, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation and life celebration will be held on Sunday, November 26, 2023, from 1-9 pm at McCaleb Funeral Home.