James E. Ramp

James E. Ramp, 90, of rural Gilson passed away peacefully at the Knox County Nursing Home on Sunday, July 14, 2024.
James was born May 18, 1934, in Galesburg, the second and last child of Earl Alonso and Marybelle (Jaques) Ramp. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister and brother-in-law Mary Lou and Guy Bates, father and mother-in-law, Robert and Allene (Young) Humphreys, grandson, Alec James Ramp, and nephew Robert G Bates. James (Jim) began his life in Galesburg, IL then moved to Brookfield, IL for three years, finally moving to the farm in rural Gilson where he attended Lotts Elementary School. He graduated from Knoxville High School in 1953 where he was a standout athlete in track holding the half mile record until 1986. He was active in 4-H and FFA earning the top honor of Star Farmer his senior year.
After HS graduation, he assisted his father on the family farm. On November 26, 1956, he was drafted into the Army, trained at Fort Sheridan in IL, and served in Korea. He always told his children he peeled potatoes in Korea; however, he was a heavy weapons infantryman utilizing a 105 recoilless rifle and canon rifle with 80mm mortar. He received a commendation for expert rifle and a good conduct medal. Jim was discharged from full duty in 1958 and was honorably discharged November 30, 1962, as Specialist 4th Class. For 39 years Jim was employed as a freight conductor with Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) railroad.
On December 30, 1958 he married Sally J. Humphreys. Together they lived in rural Gilson raising a family of their five surviving children, including Jonathan (Barbara) of LaGrange Park, IL twins Steven of Gilson and Stacy (Philip) Shane of Burlington, IA, David (Kathryn) of Hampton, IL and Benjamin (Kathleen) of Geneseo, IL. Jim taught his children to be honest, helpful, and hard working by raising pigs and cattle for 4-H projects, which later enabled each to earn a college degree. Jim and Sally are proud of their accomplishments as contributing adults. Jim leaves behind Sally, his wife of 65 years, children and grandchildren: Nathan (Cassandra) Ramp, Rachel Ramp, Aaron and Bethany Shane, Sarah, Rebecca, and Elizabeth Ramp along with three nephews and four nieces.
Visitation will be from 5:00-7:00 PM, Thursday, July 18, 2024 at Hurd-Hendricks Funeral Homes and Crematory, Knoxville. Funeral service will be held 11:00 AM, Friday, July 19, 2024 at Hurd-Hendricks Funeral Homes and Crematory, Knoxville. Burial will be in the Knoxville Cemetery. Hurd-Hendricks Funeral Homes and Crematory, Knoxville are assisting the family with arrangements. Memorial contributions may be made to Knoxville FFA or the Knox County 4-H Foundation.