Reno Kramer, 89, of Coupeville, moved on to be with our savior Friday, Sept. 30, 2011.
Growing up with seven sisters and six brothers, he learned the importance and savored the joy of being part of a large and loving community.
Reno was born Aug. 29, 1922 in Aberdeen, Idaho to Adolph and Christina Kramer and attended high school in Wishek, N.D.
His extensive work experience included time with the Ford Motor Company, Shell Oil and the U.S. military.
After the war, he went on to own his own real estate business before achieving a long and distinguished career working with the U.S. government in the Department of Housing and Urban Development.
While working for the military, Reno met Dolores Ruth McWilliams. They were married Feb. 6, 1943 in Portland, Ore. and shared over 65 years together. Following their dreams led to homes in Oregon, California, Idaho and Washington.
Proof of their love for each other was evident with the birth of their three children, Linda, Jeffrey and Dana.
Avid travelers, Dolores and Reno’s adventures took them not only to numerous national parks but exotic locations worldwide.
In 1992, the Kramers found their final home on Whidbey where they became members of the Oak Harbor First United Methodist Church. Reno’s church activities included hosting Sunday services and donating his time at various church activities.
With his love for community, donating his time and services were a constant theme. Reno was proud to volunteer his time to the Gideons, participating in their outreach program of ensuring that a copy of God’s word reaches as many people as possible. His faith was also exhibited through his work with the Stephen Ministries, reaching out to others to provide comfort and assistance during times of need.
Reno is survived by daughter Linda Plitkins of Freeland; sons Jeffrey Kramer of Las Cruces, N.M. and Dana Kramer of New York, N.Y. Missing him also will be Andy Plitkins (husband to Linda); Sue Kramer (wife to Jeff); and Katherine Leask (wife to Dana). Grandchildren include Demi Plitkins, Shari Bullen, Sarah Kramer and Nathan Kramer along with great-grandchildren Jake, Tony and Gavan. He will also be missed by his island neighbors and church family.
A memorial service is planned for 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 8 at the Oak Harbor First United Methodist Church at 1050 SE Ireland St., Oak Harbor. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Gideons or the Oak Harbor First United Methodist Church Mission Ministry.
