Lloyd G. Kramer

Lloyd G. Kramer, age 91, of Eaton, Ohio, died Thursday, February 15, 2007 at Greenbriar Nursing Center in Eaton, Ohio. Born on March 10, 1915 in Preble County, Ohio, he was the son of the late Homer E. & Ruth E. (Goldsmith) Kramer. He was graduated from Eaton High School in 1933, elected president of his graduating class, and later attended Dayton Technical School. He was a Preble County farmer and member of the Eaton Grange for over 50 years, a member of Eaton United Church of Christ, a Life Member of Optimist Club of Eaton, Ohio, past Director and President of Miami Valley Steam Threshers Association, a member of Darke County Steam Threshers, a member of Southwestern Ohio Antique Tractor & Power Association, and a Charter Member of the Preble County Historical Society. With his brother, he operated Kramer Brothers, an excavating and contracting business (1946 – 1970), completing many public and private projects that include replacing the covered bridge over Bantas Fork on Rt. 726 with the modern bridge, constructing the water treatment plant at College Corner, and subcontracting and supplying gravel for the construction of Interstate 70. His well-known affection for antique equipment began when, as a small boy, he helped with his father’s steam-powered custom threshing business. Over the years the family’s collection has grown to include over 15 steam engines in various states of restoration, farm tractors, threshing machines, clover hullers, and even a calliope, which has often been a part of local parades.

Preceded in death by wife of 49 ½ years: Odessa H. (Holtzclaw) Kramer in 1994.

Survived by his sons & daughters-in-law: Gary W. & Melinda Kramer of Gaithersburg, Maryland, Jerold B. & Kim Kramer of Richmond, Indiana, Norman R. & Aleis Kramer of Eaton, Ohio and Leslie E. & Sarah Kramer of Stanwood, Washington; brother & sister-in-law: Ivan E. & Anna Kramer of Eaton, Ohio; grandchildren: Anthony (Robyn), Kevin, Kyle (Brianna), Kurt, Sela, Tony, and Cliff; great grandchildren: Ryann, Brooks, Carson, Hunter, Chandler, and Madyson; numerous nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends.

Funeral Service will be held Tuesday, February 20, 2007 at 10:00 a.m. at the Eaton United Church of Christ - 113 West Decatur Street - Eaton, Ohio with Pastor Larry E. Ganger officiating. Interment will be held in Mound Hill Union Cemetery - Eaton, Ohio. Family will receive friends on Monday, February 19, 2007 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Eaton United Church of Christ - 113 West Decatur - Eaton, Ohio. Arrangements entrusted to Barnes Funeral Home - 220 East Main Street - Eaton, Ohio. Memorial Contributions may be made to the Odessa Kramer Literacy Center - 450 South Barron Street - Eaton, Ohio 45320. Condolences may be sent to the family via the Web site at www.barnesfuneralhome.com