Ramiro Garcia-Pena

Ramiro Garcia Peña, 86, of Bridgeton, NJ passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 7, 2024. He was born in Atencingo, Puebla Mexico and was a Welder at the Sugar Factory (Ingenio Azucarero) beginning in 1965. In addition to being a talented tradesman, he had experience working in the fields. At the very young age of 17, he signed a contract for seasonal work, which brought him to California and Florida and back to his home in Mexico during late 50's-60's. Ramiro met his beautiful wife in Atencingo in 1966 and the soul mates were married in 1969. While employed at the Sugar Factory, Ramiro had the opportunity to also continue working in the fields. In 1972, Ramiro would then split his time by working half the year in Mexico (December-June) and half the year in the U.S. (July-November). When he came to the U.S. to work, it was at Sheppard's Farms in Cedarville, NJ, a lettuce farm, which he absolutely loved and also, "El Chino", a bok choy farm. From 1981-1983 he also worked in the farm's kitchen, cooking delicious meals for 100's of fellow fieldworkers.
After a successful career, Ramiro retired from the Sugar Factory in the late 90's and also stopped working the fields. In the early 2000's, Ramiro made a name for himself here in Bridgeton, NJ while making and selling his "famous" tortas and tamales. It was during this time, that he moved to the U.S. permanently. His wife Teresa and their five children along with their families following soon after.
Ramiro was an inspirational yet humble man of noble personality. His sense of humor, friendliness and outgoing nature, touched the lives of everyone he met. Spending quality time with his eleven grandchildren made his heart the fullest. He loved singing, especially Mi Arbol Yo and Que Tal te Va Sin Mi. Watching a Phillies game was a highlight of his day, as he was a very loyal fan. One of his favorite times of the year was the Christmas season. He loved going to visit his hometown every December to gather with family. Preparing the nativity scene, posadas and enjoying all the festivities that followed, really captivated his joyful spirit. Fruit (Pitaya) and Chivo were amongst his most favorite foods to indulge in.
Ramiro's laugh and genuineness will tremendously be missed. He leaves behind a loving and honorable legacy, including countless memories which will all be everlasting.
He was preceded in death by; his son, Eduardo Garcia Lopez (Elizabeth Gonazalez). He is survived by; his loving wife of 55 years, Teresa Lopez Arellano; four children, Lorenzo Garcia Lopez (Laura Gomez), Angelica Garcia Lopez (Osvan Vivar), Orlando Garcia Lopez (Dailyng Tiapa) and Omar Garcia Lopez (Brandi Frajdenberg); 11 grandchildren, Jan Carlo Garcia Gomez, Linette Garcia Gomez, Luis Diego Garcia Gonzalez, Stephanie Garcia Gonzalez, Osvan Jr. Vivar Garcia, Polette Garcia Gomez, Katelyn Garcia Villalpando, Alliso Vivar Garcia, Ariana Garcia Villalpando, Camila Garcia Gonzalez and Dylan Vivar Garcia; and his nieces (sobrinas) and nephews (sobrinos) that reside in Mexico.
He will always be remembered in our hearts.
Lovingly Submitted, The Family
Friends will be received at the PADGETT FUNERAL HOME, 1107 State Hwy 77 on Monday, November 11th from 6 PM to 8 PM. Funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, November 12th at 10 AM at Parish of the Holy Cross St. Teresa of Avila Church, 46 Central Avenue, Bridgeton. Interment will take place at Overlook Cemetery, 100 Overlook Drive, Bridgeton following the Mass. Written condolences can be sent to the family through the funeral home website www.padgettfuneralhomes.com.