Ross L. Cramer (92) peacefully entered the presence of his Lord and Savior Jesus Tuesday evening March 22, in Miller’s Merry Manor Nursing Home, Plymouth. He was born in Linkville, Indiana July 1, 1929 as the eldest surviving child of Charles Cramer and Mildred (Reese) Cramer. He was preceded in death by his loving wife Marilyn, his parents, son Dennis Cramer, grandson Joseph Cramer, a brother Kenneth Cramer, sister “little” Marilyn Cramer and 2 infant siblings; Keith and Phyllis.
Ross is survived by one brother, C. Larry Cramer of Plymouth, Indiana. He is also survived by his children; Dr. Steven (Terri) Cramer of Cassopolis, Dale (Tricia) Cramer of Plymouth, Diane (Dennis) Berger of Plymouth, Dr. Michael (Cindi) Cramer of Mishawaka, Sharon (Jim) McIntosh of Warsaw and daughter in law Marcia Cramer Hochstetler of Bremen. He is also survived by 19 grandchildren and 45 great-grandchildren.
Having grown up in the Lapaz, Indiana area, Dad attended both the old Linkville School and Lapaz High School. He was active in high school activities but focused primarily on athletics, participating in softball, basketball and track…regularly winning the 100, 200 yard dashes, and relay events. During this time he also learned the values of faith, commitment, and hard work. At the age of 14 Dad was thrust into the position of having to run the small family farm as his father recuperated from a severe farm accident. That focused, family commitment was evident throughout Dad’s life when he needed to persevere in dealing with the trials of Life.
It was during his high school years that he met the love of his life, Marilyn (Schutz). As Dad often told the story: “While two classmates were arguing about who should ask Mom out on a date, I snuck out of the gym and asked her first!” That began a decades long love relationship. Then a year after graduating they were married on Sept. 12, 1948 at the Indiana Chapel, Lakeville. Mom and Dad were blessed with 72 wonderful years together and their commitment to each other was a great example for us all.
Growing up in a Christian home, Dad committed his life to Christ as young teenager. While quiet about his faith, he exhibited it outwardly in his commitment to his wife, family, friends, and in his business practices. Dad’s faith, commitment and work ethic (his work excellence being his signature) was never more evident than when at the age of 29 he and a partner stepped out and started Faulkner & Cramer Masonry…a business that eventually grew to 2 crews providing masonry work spanning 33 years until his retirement.
His family is also blessed to have many memories of Dad and Mom’s faithfulness to their church family, constant presence at their children’s school and church events and also in their hosting large family gatherings…especially around the holidays. In addition, there were also wonderful family fishing vacations in Wisconsin and visits with them in Florida in their later years. Dad and Mom became teenagers all over again during their retirement in Florida and could wear you out playing cards and other games until past midnight.
Most of all, we will remember Dad’s quiet faith, most exemplified in his loving devotion to Mom…particularly her last years as she was plagued with several health issues and the limitations of the Covid 19 restrictions. We rejoice in the fact that he is now in heaven with his Lord, Mom and many loved ones. But we will miss his presence in our daily lives.
The Cramer family would also like to thank the Miller’s nursing home staff for their wonderful loving care for Dad, particularly since Mom’s death a year ago.
A celebration of Ross’ life will be held on Tuesday, April 12, 2022, at the Plymouth Wesleyan Church, 11203 Michigan Road, Plymouth, Indiana at 2 p.m. with visitation held prior in the church from 12:00-2 p.m. Burial will follow in the New Oak Hill Cemetery, Plymouth. The service will also be streamed on church web site: https://vimeo.com/event/1979965
Memorial gifts in Dad’s honor may be made to Bethel University 1001 Bethel Circle, Mishawaka, Ind. 46545 or to the Plymouth Wesleyan Church.
Caryn Durski, Funeral Director
Peggy Evans says
Rest in peace uncle Ross. Love to all
Steve says
Thanks so much Peggy. I am sure your Dad and our Dad have already shared a laugh together. Steve
Diane Berger says
Thanks Peg.. as you know it’s sad to loose a parent. Un Kenny & dad had wonderful lives. I’m sure they are having a great reunion. God Bless you & your family. Love , Diane
Sharon McIntosh says
Thanks Peggy…
So many great memories of your dad & ours come flooding back. So grateful they were together in July! Much love & prayers to your family also.
Love you all,
Sharon
john says
rest in peace ross i remember him from living in lapaz
Steve says
Thanks John.
Deb francis says
Prayers for peace and comfort during this most difficult time.
Sharon McIntosh says
Thanks Deb… Your prayers, thoughtfulness & kindness have meant alot to us.
Love,
Jim & Sharon
Wayne Vance says
Steve, Dale, Diane and all of your family. My deepest condolences. It it always difficult to lose a parent. I’m sure he will be missed.
Diane says
Thanks Wayne. Dad always enjoyed watching Lancer basketball. We reminisced frequently of the big upset over Plymouth in the sectional.⛹️♂️
Steven Cramer says
Thanks so much Wayne.
Les Trump says
Jackie and me send our “Celebration of life” wishes and remember Ross and Marilyn as dear couple we always enjoyed meeting in stores. Marilyn was a wonderful teacher at Shiloh Wesleyan as a VBS teacher and they both are wonderful! Many great memories of a great family
Diane says
Thank you Les. Mom & Dad had many great times with Roy & Nina & the gang at Shiloh. Christian friends that lasted a lifetime. We all were Blessed with their example
Steven Cramer says
Thank you Les….those were wonderful days at Shiloh.
Fred and Kathy funk says
Dale and family sorry for your loss. God bless
Dale Cramer says
Thank you Fred & Kathy.
Les Trump says
Jackie and I send our condolences to the family but this is a celebration of life for Ross and Marilyn. May God Bless you all!!
Diane says
Les , Thank you for your kind words. Fond memories of Roy & Nina& all the Shiloh gang. Trumps, Bergers, Suters, Cramers, what fun they had. A wonderful legacy to us all
Kenneth Crocker says
So sorry for your loss. I remember all the times we visited and the trips to Wisconsin. Even learning basic brick laying at my grandparents house in Minong, WI.
Diane says
Kenneth, Thank you so much for you kind words. Bill& Mary were the most precious friends to Mom& Dad. A friendship that lasted a lifetime. I’m sure they are having a great reunion.
Cindy Crossgrove Owens says
We are so sorry for your loss. It is so hard for us to have them leave us, but faith tells us they are at peace. You will all be in our prayers. Respectfully, Cindy Owens
Steven Cramer says
Thank you Cindy.
John & Josephine Ruff says
Keep the family in our prayers for God’s peace, comfort and strength in your grief. Thankful for the hope of eternity. Sending hugs.
Dale Cramer says
Thank you Fred & Kathy
Dale Cramer says
Thank you John & Josephine.
We have many great memories!
Renea Beldon says
What a great life. Terry and I were so young when we met our neighbors. It didn’t take long to know they were wonderful people. I’m sure you all will celebrate his life. Fond memories Terry and Renea Beldon
Sharon McIntosh says
Terry & Renea,
Thank so much. Mom & Dad enjoyed watching you transform that farmhouse. And your boys gave them so much entertainment!! Great neighbors, great memories!
Love, Sharon
Diane says
Thank you . They loved the “ young family across the street” I’m thankful you were able to keep an eye on them. God Bless you
Vicky Moore Weaver says
So sorry for your loss. May God give you peace and strength.
Diane Berger says
Thank you Vicky
Loree Swart says
A life well lived. May your memories and God’s Love comfort you all. Condolences Sincerely Loree Swart
Diane says
Thank you Lorre.
Steven Cramer says
Thanks so much Lorre.
Norma (Reese) Young says
Please accept my sincere sympathy, I really enjoyed your parent’s while here at Millers Sr. Living. Brought back many memories. Gods blessings and prayers to each family.
Diane says
Thank you Norma. You were a great blessing to dad there at Miller’s. Gave him comfort to have family there. God Bless you.
Dale Cramer says
Thank you Norma!
Diane’s response says it all from the Cramer’s.
Jim and Peggy Wood Bonita Springs Fl. says
Sorry to hear of your fathers passing, what a great long life they had together. A generation that survived much. A good Christian family and a unbelievable list of grandchildren and great grandchildren. I got to know several of you through Dale and business. You have all done them proud. Prayers to all of the family.
Dale Cramer says
Thank you Peggy & Jim.
I appreciate your heartfelt condolences. Great memories!
Eugene Wenzel says
Dear Steve, I am sorry for your loss of your father. He was a great father and devoted to the Lord. I’m sure he is enjoying Heaven with loved ones and the Lord. Gene and Patt Wenzel
Steve says
Thanks Eugene. We look forward to a wonderful heavenly reunion someday.
Steve
Jan and Mary Lee Gustafson says
We thought the world of Ross and Marilyn. I always looked forward to the daily morning visits at the body shop. Ross was a great friend and neighbor.
Diane says
Jan & Marylee… you were so special to Dad. He loved you like a son. You took great care of him. Mom was thankful you were so gracious to him. He missed those visits when he moved away. Thank your friendship & all you did for home through the years.
Diane says
Thank you Jan & Marylee. Your friendship was very special to Dad. He loved visiting with you. Mom loved you for your patience with him😍 He missed your company when he moved away. You both were a blessing
Sharon L McIntosh says
Thanks Jan & Mary Lee,
Mom & Dad enjoyed your friendship & watching your girls grow. You took such good care of Dads vehicles. But mostly the friendship & conversations. For that we are grateful. You will always be “Tuffy”..
Love, Sharon
Kristine A Cooke says
To all of my cousin’s..I know your Dad and Aunt Marlyn are in heaven together with Grandma, Grandpa, Uncle Kenny all reunited.
I have so many memories growing up next to each other, all of the fun we had as kids, and the family holiday celebrations. I will always cherish those times.
Love to you all
Kristine, Rayann, Garett Cooke
Emma and Tyler Weddington♥️
Sharon L McIntosh says
Thanks Kris,
Too many memories to mention.. The reunion in Heaven is happening… Makes us smile thinking of it!
Love to all,
Sharon
Diane says
Thanks Kris. We did have a lot of good times. Lot of family memories
Tina (Schutz) Wilson says
So sorry to hear of the loss of Uncle Ross. He was always so sweet to me. I’m sure both of our parents are celebrating now. Prayers for everyone.
Sharon L McIntosh says
Thanks Tina,
Precious Memories of your mom & dad too. Reminds me so much of the song “will the circle be unbroken..”
Love to your family
Diane says
Thank you Tina. You are too young to remember bt Un Fred & mom sang many a duet at church service & reunion. Dad always on the front row smiling & enjoying. What a reunion!
Steve & Linda Jarrell says
Our condolences to your family and prayers as you walk through these difficult days…we grieve, yet not without hope! (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18)
God bless you!
Steve & Linda Jarrell
Diane says
Thank you for your kind words. Aren’t we blessed to have such strong Christian heritage!!! He is reunited with mom, what a joyous day
Steven Cramer says
Thanks so much Steve and Linda.
Sharon L McIntosh says
Thanks Kris,
Too many memories to mention.. The reunion in Heaven is happening… Makes us smile thinking of it!
Love to all,
Sharon
Carol Botset says
I am sorry for your loss. I remember your parents when we all attended Shilo Wesleyan church. Your mother was my Bible school teacher. Praying for your family.
Carol Botset- (Bollman)
Diane Berger says
Thank you Carol. Our years at Shiloh built our Christian foundation. I’m thankful my parents were a blessing to you.
Diane Berger says
Thank you Carol. Those Shiloh days were life forming. It’s nice to know Dad &Mom were a blessing to you.
Paula Tibbs says
So sorry for your loss but so much rejoicing going on in Heaven! When we all get to Heaven what a day of rejoicing that will be! Thoughts and prayers are with you all. Such wonderful mom and dad you hold in your hearts.
Sharon L McIntosh says
Thank you Paula,
I can hear them all singing! Firm foundation of faith is a wonder heritage. They are missed, but we know we’ll see them again.
Love, Sharon
Diane Berger says
Thank you Paula. All the old friends are celebrating in heaven. What a glorious day!!!!
Diane Berger says
Thank you Paula. Many happy memories. The circle of friends is now complete & enjoying singing in the heavenly choir
Christine Crocker says
Ross was a wonderful presence in our family’s life. He and Marilyn shared so much of my parents life. I loved them both—-anyone who knew them, will miss them
Sharon L McIntosh says
Thank you Chris,
Crockers & Cramers…what a duo! Friendship of a lifetime. Wonderful memories come flooding back
Love, Sharon
Diane Berger says
Thank you Christine. What great friends they were. An example to us all.
Diane Berger says
Thank you Chris. We were all blessed from the lifelong friendship of our parents. Constant companions. Bill & Mary.. Ross & Marilyn.. examples to us all
Joyce Warnacut says
How do I begin to offer condolences to the family that is such a part of my years growing up? Ross was my father’s BFF, and Ross and Marilyn were my parent’s best friends ad long as I can remember. Vacations in Wisconsin in the early years, retirement times in Wisconsin in later years – they shared their fun, faith and family values. I am sad, yet cherish the picture in my head of a game of Mexican Train or Hand and Foot going on in heaven. How many of us have friendships we can expect to continue for 70 years? The Crocker / Cramer pew at church must feel empty, Thank you to Ross for being my father’s oldest and dearest friend.
Sharon L McIntosh says
Thank you Joyce,
Your dad and ours, best of buds! Dad cherished your dad! You said it all in so many wonderful memories… What a reunion in heaven is taking place…
Love, Sharon
Diane Berger says
Thank you Joyce… there really aren’t any words to express the how much our families are intertwined. Not just our parents bt grandparents also.. generations. We were all blessed & have their example to follow.
Janet Marks Mankowski says
I’m certain Ross has gone to a happier place to be with Marilyn. Although my cousin was older than me I always remember his smile and both Ross and Marilyn were always so friendly. Sincere condolences to all the family.
Diane Berger says
Thank you Janet.
Ren and Beverly Van Gilder says
Sending you our sympathy.
Sincerely,
Ren and Beverly Van Gilder
Diane Berger says
Thank you Ren & Beverly. Dennis says Semper Fi !
Mary Anne Martin says
My condolences to the family, may you find comfort knowing your loved one is at peace in God’s arms.
God Bless 🙏