Edward Kramer

Kramer, Edward
CLIFTON PARK -
Edward Joel Kramer, 81, of Clifton Park, passed away peacefully on January 23, 2025, at St. Peter's Hospital in Albany, embraced by the love of his devoted family. Born on December 17, 1943, in Brooklyn, N.Y., Edward was the cherished son of the late Benjamin and Annette (Schneider) Kramer.
Raised in the tenements of Brooklyn during modest beginnings, Ed later moved to Queens, where he graduated from Forrest Hills High School in 1961. A passionate advocate for education and service, he earned his bachelor's and master's degrees in education from New York University. It was at N.Y.U. that he met the love of his life, Hillary, and their romance blossomed into a lifelong partnership. The two married a year after graduation and built a life defined by love, laughter, and purpose. They were married for 56 years.
Ed's commitment to making our country a better place was evident early in life. In 1963, he proudly joined the historic March on Washington for Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech, a pivotal moment in the civil rights movement. Professionally, Ed's journey was equally remarkable. He began his career at the Hebrew Home for the Aged and the Henry Street Settlement on the Lower East Side, where he championed innovative programs for senior care.
Ed was a pioneer in advocating for meals on wheels and the elderly nutrition program, culminating in his successful advocacy for passage of the landmark Older Americans Act, which was signed into law in 1965 by President Lyndon B. Johnson-a moment he proudly commemorated by keeping a pen used in the signing ceremony. This legacy continued through his work in both the public and private sectors, influencing policies that benefited countless older adults.
In the early 1970s, Edward and his family settled in Clifton Park, where he began a distinguished 30-year public service career at the New York State Office for Aging. From the administration of Governor Nelson Rockefeller to that of Governor George Pataki, Ed worked tirelessly to improve the lives of seniors, earning a reputation for unwavering dedication and compassion. For many years, Ed hosted an award-winning public affairs television program on W.N.Y.T. Ch. 13 called "Old Friends" which focused on senior citizen issues. Ed received the prestigious Nelson A. Rockefeller Award for Public Service by S.U.N.Y. Albany.
Beyond his professional achievements, Ed found his greatest joy in his family. He often said the secret to a long marriage was "a short memory," a testament to his humor and humility. He shared countless adventures with his son, Adam, from attending Star Wars and movie premieres and W.W.F. wrestling events to exploring comic book conventions. These moments of connection were treasures he held close to his heart.
Ed's love extended to his cherished granddaughter, Emily, who brought boundless joy to his life. His legacy of kindness, determination, and love lives on through his family and the many lives he touched.
Ed loved to read several newspapers every day, enjoy a good cup of coffee, "good" Chinese food, bagels and lox, and a pastrami and rye sandwich.
Ed is survived by his beloved wife of over 56 years, Hillary S. Kramer; his son, Adam Kramer, and daughter-in-law, Myla Kramer; and his adored granddaughter, Emily Kramer. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Elaine Kramer. Ed was predeceased by his brothers, Arthur Kramer and Milton Kramer.
Funeral service will be led by Rabbi Ami Monson and held on Sunday, January 26, at 2 p.m., at Townley & Wheeler Funeral Home, 21 Midline Rd., Ballston Lake, N.Y.
The interment will be held later.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to either the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704 Hagerstown, Md. 21741 or the Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America, 290 Tpke. Rd., Ste. 5-315, Westborough, Mass. 01581, reflecting Ed's lifelong commitment to helping others.
Edward Joel Kramer will forever be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and advocate who dedicated his life to making the world a kinder, more compassionate place.
With confidence, the family has placed their trust in the loving care of the Townley & Wheeler Funeral Home, 21 Midline Rd., Ballston Lake, and they encourage you to view and leave messages on Edward's Book of Memories at www.TownleyWheelerFH.com