Our dear Dad passed away July 25th, 2023 at the age of 92.
Born August 19th, 1930, Bob (known affectionately as ‘Red’ to many) was the oldest of four children born to Ollie and Margaret Kramer. He was a devoted brother to Joan (Mike) Tettamble, the late Ray (Carole) Kramer, and the late Catherine (Emil) Bubash. Bob married the love of his life, Betty (Baum), in 1952, and together they lovingly raised 11 children, Ron (Marilyn), Karen Dreher, Tom (Nancy), Jim, Bob, Joe (Annette), Tim (Benedicte), Dan, Mary Rogan, Michael (Christine), Kathleen (Tom) Reinwart, until Betty’s passing in 1992. It has been said that “no couple was more polite, generous, gracious, giving and loving than Bob and Betty.” Bob instilled in his children his passion for life and his love for family, rooted deeply in his strong faith in God.
Bob married Myra (Jung) in 1995 and enjoyed living their golden years together and spending time with friends and family. They were married for 24 years until Myra’s passing in 2019. Bob proudly worked for Anheuser-Busch for 42 years, until his well-deserved retirement at age 60. His faith was first and foremost as he attended daily mass most of his life. He always lived life to the fullest and was known to not sit still for too long. He loved traveling, golfing, road trips, family vacations, card games, cheering for all the St. Louis sports teams, and a well-made Manhattan. He always saw the glass half-full and was easily recognized by his big smile, belly laugh and huge heart.
There wasn’t anyone who knew him who didn’t love him.
Most of all, Bob loved his family. He took pride in supporting their accomplishments and was the most kind, dedicated and thoughtful father. He spent many years coaching their teams and never missed a sporting event, concert, recital, or an opportunity to celebrate them. He was also a very proud grandfather of 27, great grandfather of 27, a loving cousin, uncle, and friend.
Although our loss is great, we are comforted knowing he is welcomed into heaven by many friends and family who have gone before him. We smile thinking of the wonderful reunion that will be had as he meets again his wife Betty, his daughter, Karen, son, Jim, and beautiful great granddaughter, Gwendolyn.
You are invited to help celebrate Bob’s life on Tuesday, August 1st, at Saint John Paul II Catholic Church (formerly St. Dominic Savio, 7748 Mackenzie Road.) Visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m., with mass beginning at 10:30 a.m. Burial immediately following at Resurrection Cemetery.
A very special thank you to Lois Shannon, Kathleen Clark, VITAS Hospice Care and The Woodlands Skilled Nursing Center for their compassion and support in caring for our father. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Gwendolyn’s Gifts: https://gwendolynsgifts.org/
So very sorry for your loss. He was such a vibrant figure in your family. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. I know he will be missed.
Much love to the whole Kramer family. It was always great to see your Dad at Uptown Cafe. He helped produce an amazing family . I have never met a closer group of siblings than the 11 Kramers. You should all be very proud of your family.
Red was a “Pillar” in so many ways— passionate in all aspects of Life, and such a Positive Influence on All who he came in touch with throughout his Life. He truly has moved onto “The Top Shelf” resting in Peace with His Creator and Savior—And— All of Friends. His Spirit Will live on forever— Bill B
Sending hearfelt condolences to the Kramer family. What a beautiful legacy Mr. Kramer has left behind. May his soul rest in eternal peace and perpetual light shine upon him.
So very sorry so your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with your entire family.
Dear Kramer family and friends,
Your parents have given the gift of your wonderful family to this world, so their legacy of kindness lives on. May your dear dad rest in peace and love. Keeping you all close in thought and prayer.
So sorry for all of . Your Dad was one of the great ones! He’ll be missed my all who knew him. The reunion you speak of will be wonderful!
Bob and Betty Kramer were my Godparents. No two people more embraced that role. My earliest memories as a small child are of them visiting with my family in St. Louis and showering me with both their and God’s love. The image and character of Jesus’s mother, Mary, absolute love and compassion, as taught by the church were imbued within my Godmother, Betty. The voracious strength, convictions and indomitable energy of Archangel Gabriel emanated from my Godfather, Bob. As a child that is how I was able to process and perceive them both when introduced to me as my ‘Godparents.’ Bob and Betty were my parents very best loved friends. They are forever in my heart and an integral component of who I am.
Bob and Betty Kramer and family were a Blessing to our family during the late 1950’s and early 1960’s in St. Louis. When we gathered for fun evenings with their 11 or so children (mostly red heads) and our 6 (half were red heads) it was a visual explosion!!! We were all Blessed by Bob’s loving enthusiam and great gravely voice! Here’s to Bob and the Kramer family–until we meet again!!!
What a life well lived! I can’t even imagine the celebration that is going on in heaven with those who went before Bob, like my parents, John and Pat Atwater! He filled every room he entered with joy, laughter and big bear hugs! Our little house in St. Louis had a crazy, fun energy when he walked through the door, with his booming voice throwing brother Douglas up in the air!! I am sure his family will miss him every day that they walk here on Planet Earth! Another great one has passed to Glory!