Harley Ramsey

Harley Edward Ramsey of Elgin, passed away peacefully on May 14, 2025, at Alden of Huntley, at the age of 90.  Born in Mount Vernon, Illinois on July 2, 1934, Harley was a lifelong resident of the state of Illinois.

His early years were spent exploring the outdoors with his siblings - hunting quail, pheasant and rabbit, fishing or gigging frogs.  He later served honorably in the U.S. Navy aboard a destroyer as a gunnery sergeant, also assisting in the decommissioning of ships.  Harley later retired from Shakeproof after 41 years of dedicated service, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, loyalty, and lasting contributions.

Harley lived a rich and joyful life, filled with family, friendship, and adventure.  For 64 years, he was the devoted husband of Lela (Campbell) Ramsey, whom he married on April 16, 1958, in Genoa, Illinois. Together they raised three children and built a legacy of love, laughter, and helping others.

A true community man, Harley was a dedicated leader in the Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, and Voyageurs. He found joy in life's simple pleasures—playing pinochle, dominoes, and cribbage, hunting for treasures and projects at garage sales, and staying up to date on the weather and the latest crappie and walleye fishing reports. He especially enjoyed his fishing trips to Canada and Bellevue -always reminding others to “bring your quarters!”

Harley never passed up a good road trip and always knew just the right spot to stop for ice cream or what he called "a mighty fine meal." He was a loyal supporter at his grandchildren's and great-grandchildren's events rarely missing any, cheering from the sidelines with pride.  His stories, support, and warm sense of humor left an indelible mark on every generation that followed him.

Harley is survived by his children, Rick Ramsey, Sharon (John) Schuman, and Rodney (Brenda) Ramsey; his grandchildren, Christopher Schuman, Brian (Alpharis) Schuman, Tabitha (Jarrod) Maness, Brianna (Mike) Carey; 9 beloved great-grandchildren whom he loving referred to as "the little dudes"; and siblings Anne and Charles.  He leaves behind three generations of family who will carry forward his memory, humor, and values.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Lela; his parents, Lawrence and Lucy (Childers) Ramsey; siblings Myrtle, Norman (Mamie), Floyd (Hazel), William (Audrey), Lucille (Henry) Bartolomucci, and Buelah (Irvin) Jolliff, and daughter-in-law, Jill Ramsey.

Harley will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His warmth, kindness, and unwavering support touched the lives of so many, and his memory will forever live on in our hearts.

A graveside service with military honors will be held on Friday, May 23, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Lakewood Memorial Park, followed by a celebration of life luncheon at the American Legion Post 57 in Elgin.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial donation may be made in Harley's name to the Izaak Walton League, Elgin Chapter.