STEPHEN P. KRAMER

KRAMER--Stephen Pendleton, 66, died August 8 in New York City at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center of complications from multiple myeloma. Loving husband for 40 years of Bonnie (Bonita Franklin, M.D.), his soul-mate, and adoring father of Jacob (Sara), Sarah and Alex Kramer, Steve was a constant and effervescent presence in the lives of his family and friends. Born in Washington, D.C. to Victor and Miriam Tickton Kramer, he attended The Choate School, Harvard College and The University of Pennsylvania Law School, after which he followed in the footsteps of his father in pursuing a career in the law dedicated primarily to public service. Upon graduation he threw himself into the George McGovern campaign for President, then joined the New York City Corporation Counsel where he was involved in environmental litigation and important policy matters, becoming Chief of the General Litigation Division. Mayor Ed Koch valued his wisdom and appointed him to fill an open seat on the bench as Judge of the Civil Court. Thereafter, he worked at Proskauer Rose LLC for several years before establishing a private practice dealing with New York City agencies. His last position, before the onset of his illness, was Chief of Staff and Special Counsel to the Commissioner of the New York Department of Buildings. Steve was known for mentoring young colleagues, many of whom went on to prominent careers with the City and in public service. Although born in Washington, D.C., Steve became the quintessential New Yorker, often riding his bicycle with Bonnie to all five boroughs, visiting frequently the Bronx and Brooklyn Botanical Gardens, Central Park, the City's many museums, attending theater, movies and musical events, a passion which engaged his entire family. Steve and Bonnie were pioneers in moving to Tribeca in 1983, and loved their loft and the community in their neighborhood. In addition to Bonnie and his children, Steve is survived by his sisters Ruth Kramer Ziony and Edie Kramer Wilairat. Steve was a constant source of intellectual energy and warmth to his many friends and his absence will be felt by all. Shiva will be at the Kramer/Franklin residence at 16 Hudson Street starting Monday from 5-8pm until Thursday. In lieu of flowers, donations in Steve's honor may be sent to the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation (www.theMMRF.org).