Gregorio Ramirez

Our father, Gregorio Ramirez, arrived in the United States 35 years ago, leaving behind his life in Guatemala in search of a better opportunity. He worked tirelessly to provide for our family and give us the childhood he never had. Although he was always working, he made sure to spend quality time with us. Every Sunday, he’d take us on picnics, walking around with sandwiches in hand while showing us the ducks and turtles by the pond. 

During Christmas, we’d drive through neighborhoods, watching the holiday lights from his little yellow sedan. When we were younger, he would even take us to his jobs, sneaking us sweets and 7-Eleven hot dogs along the way. As he began to lose his eyesight, he didn’t stop working. 

Even if it meant taking on odd jobs, like slicing ham for Thanksgiving, he pushed through to make sure we had a good Christmas—even if it meant sacrificing a part of his finger in the process. His determination to never give up, no matter the circumstances, was a constant example for us. He showed us what it meant to fight until the very end, always prioritizing our well-being and happiness above all else.