Ramona Catherine Race

Ramona Catherine Race, age 70, of Naperville, IL, passed away peacefully on October 17, 2025.
Ramona is the beloved wife of 48 years to Michael, and the devoted mother of Kathleen. She is also survived by her brother, sister, four nephews, and numerous cousins.
Ramona was born on May 2, 1955 in Chicago, IL to John A. Gruszka and Helen V. (nee Matysiewski) Gruskza, who preceded her in death. She lived on Gresham Ave. until 1963 when her family moved to Schiller Park. Ramona graduated from Lincoln School, Schiller Park, in June of 1969, and East Leyden High School in 1973. She lived with family in Schiller Park until October 2, 1977, when she married Michael A. Race of Glen Ellyn, IL. They moved to Downers Grove and lived there until 1980. In 1980 they moved to Fairmeadow Lane in Naperville, where in 1986 their daughter Katie was born. In 1988 they settled on Cocalico Court where they have lived ever since.
Ramona officially began her career in 1973 working at East Leyden School Work Program at JIM Newspapers. As her career progressed, she worked as a secretary, learned word processing, and worked her way into training. She went on to work as a software trainer for three major Chicago law firms, and for 16 years ran her own training company.
A devout Catholic her entire life, in 1981 Ramona volunteered to teach 2nd Grade Catechism at SS. Peter & Paul Parish. This role continued for over 25 years. She was also a room mother, Eucharistic Minister, assistant basketball and volleyball coach, and was on the Tomorrow's Parish committee. After retirement, she volunteered with The Warrenville Youth Ministry Outreach program and worked at the Discoveries Resale Shop from 2016-2020.
Ramona loved dogs, working in her yard, and traveling to new places.
For those who would like to leave a lasting tribute to Ramona's life, memorial donations may be directed to the Alzheimer's Association.
Visitation will be Wednesday, October 22, 4:00-8:00 PM at the Friedrich-Jones Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 44 S. Mill St., Naperville. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, October 23, 11:00 AM at SS. Peter & Paul Catholic Church, 36 N. Ellsworth St., Naperville. Interment will follow at SS. Peter & Paul Cemetery.