Bernard Kramer

KRAMER, BERNARD, 103, passed away peacefully with his family at his side on December 28, 2025.

Bernard was born in August 1922 in Rock County, Nebraska, to Bernhard "Ben" Kramer and Mary Runte Kramer. He grew up on the family ranch alongside his two brothers and sister, a place that held some of his fondest memories. It was there that Bernard learned to ice skate on the pond and sharpened his checker skills competing with his older brother, Francis. During high school, Bernard discovered a passion for boxing and proudly lettered in the sport his senior year.

After graduating, Bernard moved to Omaha, Nebraska, where he repaired appliances and worked on airplane parts. When he learned that Boeing was hiring, he relocated to Wichita, Kansas, and began a career as an aircraft machinist. In his free time, Bernard enjoyed roller skating, and it was at the skating rink where he met the love of his life, Billie Way. After a brief courtship, they married in 1951.

Over the next seven years, Bernard and Billie welcomed five children - two daughters and three sons. Bernard was always happiest when busy. He worked full time at Boeing, raised his family, moved to Andover in 1962, and began purchasing and maintaining rental properties. After approximately 38 years at Boeing, Bernard retired, having earned numerous commendations for his innovative improvements to machinery and parts.

Retirement marked a joyful chapter for Bernard and Billie. Together they learned to ski and loved it so much that they eventually purchased a condo in Winter Park, Colorado, where they made countless memories with family and friends. At home, they expanded their property, planted a large garden, tended fruit trees, and even kept beehives for a time. They canned and preserved much of what they grew and were especially known for their delicious strawberry jam.

Bernard and Billie were very active at the Andover Senior Center, where Bernard could often be found at the pool table, playing cards, or convincing others to challenge him to a game of checkers. They also enjoyed square dancing. At home, Bernard spent hours in his workshop tinkering, building, and fixing just about anything he could get his hands on.

Later in life, Bernard and Billie moved to a retirement community in Overland Park, Kansas, to be closer to their eldest son. Bernard lost Billie in 2019 but remained surrounded and comforted by his large, loving family.Bernard is survived by his five children: Pat Kramer; Ben (Marilyn) Kramer; Karen (David) Walters; Keith (Terry) Kramer; and Ken (Deb) Kramer. He is also survived by 11 grandchildren - Shera, Berek, Phil, Kelsey, Maddie, Cassie, Jessie, Holly, Michael, Andrew, and Katie - and 17 great-grandchildren.

Bernard will be remembered for his work ethic, ingenuity, competitive spirit, and deep devotion to his family.

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