Socorro Orrante Ramirez's Obituary
Socorro Orrante Ramirez passed away on March 28th, 2025 at the age of 96. “Wita” or “Coco” to many, departed after spending over two years at Central Gardens nursing home.
Born on May 10, 1928 in Durango, Durango, Mexico, she was the eldest of her siblings, Elena Orrante Peña, Luis Orrante, and Sylvia Cabrera Orrante. Socorro married Julian Ramirez in 1947, upon his return from military service in World War II. Together they traveled to the United States to be with Julian’s family in San Francisco. She held many jobs throughout the years to support her family, notably as a cook at various restaurants and cafeterias, and seamstress at Bemis Bro. Bag Company and Levi Strauss & Co.
In her later years, Socorro enjoyed knitting, crochet, and embroidery, creating countless works of art. She volunteered as kitchen staff at St. Elizabeth School, and shared her passion for crafting by teaching summer school students to sew. She danced baile folklórico at the Mission Cultural Center and was very active in several senior center communities. She loved to travel with friends and family, from the slot machines in Reno to Hawaii on family vacations. Despite her many chronic medical conditions she always maintained her happy-go-lucky charm, lighting every room with her infectious giggles.
Socorro joins her husband, Julian and son, Alberto Ramirez. She is survived by her children, Rosario (Ramirez) Martinez and Enrique Ramirez, four grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. She will be remembered for her creativity, sense of humor, and joy of life.
Mass will be held 10am, Thursday, April 10 at St. Paul’s Catholic Church, 221 Valley St., San Francisco. A public viewing follows from 2:30-5pm, including at rosary at 3pm, at Duggan’s Funeral Service, 3434 17th St., San Francisco.
Burial services begin 11am, Friday, April 11, at Skylawn Memorial Park, 888 Lifemark Rd., Half Moon Bay, followed by a reception with light refreshments from 12-2pm.
What’s your fondest memory of Socorro?
What’s a lesson you learned from Socorro?
Share a story where Socorro's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Socorro you’ll never forget.
How did Socorro make you smile?