James Joseph Burger

James Joseph Burger, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, son, brother and friend passed away peacefully at his home in Temple City, California on April 17, 2025, at the age of 72.
He was born in San Gabriel, California on July 19, 1952, to parents Raymond and Helen Burger. He was one of five children. James grew up in the San Gabriel Valley where he made lifelong friends before relocating to Los Angeles where he met the love of his life. He married Ramona on February 22, 1976 and would have celebrated their 49th wedding anniversary this year.
After enjoying newlywed life, they returned to the San Gabriel Valley and planted roots in Temple City to start a family. In 1980 they welcomed their first daughter Lynette, followed by their second daughter April in 1986. He was a dotting dad who enjoyed sharing his daughter's accomplishments with friends and family. He often referred to them as the 'Burger Girls'. He was a constant source of love and support to them.
James went by many names, Jim, Jimmy, Jimbo but he will always be remembered as the man with a warm smile, gentle nature, and sense of humor. He was the kind of guy that would ask your name, remember it, and then recall it when he saw you again. He would shake your hand, give you a high five or a thumbs up to let you know you were appreciated. This rang true for anyone he encountered; from the local pizza guy to the grocery clerk, the receptionist at his doctor's offices to strangers he would only see a handful of times.
Often when talking to Jim, he used that time to share stories about music. His love for music started at an early age and continued until his final days. James and Ramona attended many music concerts together throughout their marriage. When Ramona passed, he continued attending concerts with friends, his daughter April, and granddaughter Kaitlyn. He regularly attended concerts at the Hollywood Bowl, Disney Music Hall, Grand Performances, and Colburn Music School. When he wasn't at a concert, he would often attend wine tastings or host wine parties, his other passion. He enjoyed sharing a bottle of wine, listening to a good tune all while in the company of his friends and family.
When Ramona's health declined, he became her caregiver and stood by her side until she passed in August 2022. He was strong for her because he needed to be, but it was his turn to receive the care and attention his body needed. In December 2024, his health started to decline as he was faced with many ailments. In the weeks and days leading-up to his passing he stayed true to who he was and remained upbeat and calm.
We will miss him but find peace knowing he is reunited once again with his beloved wife.
He leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and strength and unwavering support that will truly be missed. He is survived by his two daughters Lynette and April and granddaughter Kaitlyn.
He will be forever in our hearts.
VIEWING
Tuesday, May 20, 2025
4:00PM - 7:00PM
Cabot & Sons
27 Chestnut Street
Pasadena, CA 91103
FUNERAL MASS
Wednesday, May 21, 2025
11:00AM Mass
St. Luke's Catholic Church
5605 Cloverly Avenue
Temple City, CA 91780
GRAVESIDE
Wednesday, May 21, 2025
1:00PM
Oakdale Memorial Park
1401 S. Grand Avenue
Glendora, CA 91740