Sept. 27, 1997 - Sept. 14, 2012

ELKHART — Maria M. Ramirez, 14, of Elkhart, passed away Friday, Sept. 14, 2012, at Elkhart General Hospital.

She was born Sept. 27, 1997, in Aquascalintes, Mexico, to Juana Maria Esparza and Samuel Ramirez.

Surviving are her mother and stepfather, Miguel Juana Esparza of Elkhart; her father of Aquascalintes; her brothers Ramses Jasso and Miguel Esparza, both of Elkhart; and her grandparents of Mexico.

Maria was a freshman at Elkhart Memorial High School. She was a caring, loving and happy person. She loved to dance and was respectful.

Visitation will be Thursday, Sept. 20, 2012, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., followed by a vigil service at 8 p.m. at Waterman Westbrook Clouse Funeral Home. Visitation will also be for two hours prior to the funeral service at 1 p.m. Friday, Sept. 21, 2012, at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church. Father Matthew Coonan of St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church will officiate. Burial will be in St. Vincent Cemetery, Elkhart.

Memorial contributions may go to the family.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Waterman Westbrook Clouse Funeral Home.

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