George R. Kramer

KRAMER, George R
Of Ithaca
Formerly of Portage Passed away Thursday evening, September 27, 2007 at Gratiot Medical Center in Alma following a valiant struggle against pneumonia. He was born July 30, 1914 in Kalamazoo, one of three sons to Richard ?Dick? and Jennie Klimp Kramer. George was a veteran of the United States Army, serving as a medic during World War II in Europe. He was employed by The Upjohn Co. for 30 years, until his retirement in 1978. A faithful and devoted servant of his heavenly father, Mr. Kramer was a longtime active member of Grace Christian Reformed Church in Kalamazoo, where he served as an Elder and Deacon. On August 15, 1934, he was united in marriage to Martha VanDyk, who preceded him in death on February 13, 1988. On May 10, 1991, George was united in marriage to Ida Steenhuisen Bakker, who survives. Also surviving are two ?sons,? Gerrit Mary Kay Bakker of Crystal and Steven Kristin Bakker of Alma; four beloved grandchildren, Gerrit, Rachel, ?Georgie,? and David Bakker; and many dear nieces and nephews, including Wilma, Carol, ?Jimmy?, Mary Jane and ?Paul & Norene,? who all held a very special place in his heart. Preceding him in death are his parents; his first wife, Martha; one sister, Margaret Kinney; and two brothers, Thomas and James Kramer. Funeral services for Mr. Kramer will be at 12:00 PM on Monday tomorrow at Grace Christian Reformed Church, 1724 Whites Rd. with Rev. Dr. Joseph A. Brinks officiating. A luncheon will immediately follow services. Interment with military honors will be in Mt. Ever-Rest Memorial Park following the luncheon. Friends may visit with the family on Monday from 10:00 AM until the time of services at church. As an expression of sympathy, memorial contributions may be directed to Grace Christian Reformed Church ? Building Fund, or Kalamazoo Christian Schools Endowment Fund.