Monsignor James K. Ramer, 80, of Roseville, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 13, 2026.
Born in 1945 in Monmouth, Illinois, he was the son of Dale K. Ramer and Rosemary (St. Ledger) Ramer. He was raised in Roseville, Illinois, and graduated from Roseville High School with the class of 1963. Following graduation, he attended St. Ambrose College in Davenport, Iowa, before serving three years in the United States Army, including service in Germany.
After his military services, Monsignor Ramer continued his education at St. Meinrad School of Theology in St. Meinrad, Indiana. Following completion of his theological studies, he was ordained to the priesthood for the Diocese of Peoria at St. Mary’s Cathedral in Peoria, Illinois by Bishop Edward O’Rourke. He faithfully served the people of the Diocese of Peoria throughout his priestly ministry and was later honored by Bishop Daniel Jenky with the title of Monsignor in recognition of his dedicated service to the church.
Monsignor Ramer devoted his life to God, the Church, and the people he served. Through decades of pastoral ministry, he celebrated the sacraments, comforted the sick, buried the dead, counseled families and accompanied countless individuals through the joys and challenges of life. His faith, compassion, sense of humor, and dedication to others left a lasting impact on all who knew him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Dale K and Rosemary Ramer, and by his brother, Charles A. Ramer.
He is survived by his nephew, James A. Ramer of Terre Haute, Indiana; his sister-in-law, Diane Ramer of Franklin, Indiana; his nieces, Cathleen Hicks and her husband Brad and Sarah Godsave and her husband Matt; his great-nephews, Judson, Emmett, Landry, Callan, Dylan, Drew, and Ryan; and his great-nieces, Piper and Ruby.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 18, 2026, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at the St. Patrick’s Community Center in Raritan, Illinois. A mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, June 19, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Raritan. Interment will be in the St. Patrick’s Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Community Center or St. Meinrad’s Seminary and left in the care of the funeral home. Moore Memorial Home, Roseville, is handling the arrangements. For more information or to leave an online condolence, please visit our website at www.moorememorial.com
