Paul R. Kramer

Paul Richard Kramer, aged 77 of Grand Rapids, Michigan, was welcomed into Heaven and reunited with his parents and sisters, Lois (Kramer) Meekhoff and Esther (Kramer) Slings on March 19, 2025. 

Paul was born on March 23, 1947, in Holland, Michigan, as the third child of Reverend Siebert and Evelyn (Harberts) Kramer. Paul is survived by his daughters Elizabeth, her husband Chris Fowler, and their son Samuel; Allison, her husband Derrick Hedstrom and their children Jasmine, Anthony, Joshua and Anna; Brooke, her husband Jeff DeVries, and their children Josie and Xander; and his great-granddaughter Alessi, daughter of Anthony Hedstrom.  He is also survived by his older brother, Roger Kramer, his wife Tammy and youngest sister, Beatrice, and her husband Greg Bennink as well as many loving nieces, nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews. 

Paul graduated from Calvin College (now Calvin University) in 1969 with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Sociology, and he earned a Master of Theology from Boston University in 1972.  He pursued a career in social work and counseling, notably at Wedgwood Christian Services in Grand Rapids, the VFW National Home in Eaton Rapids, Michigan and the Life Center in Grand Rapids.  Paul also became a minister and as such, delivered sermons, marriages and funerals.  He combined his love of ministry and social work by being a leader and mentor to many over the years. He also started his own construction company where he worked hard to teach and give opportunity to anyone who was interested in learning the trades. Paul led a compassionate life, was slow to anger, and generous to a fault.  He has left his family with many fond memories of outdoor adventures, including hiking and water sports, as well as his spirited renditions of Christian songs.

The Heidelberg Catechism asks, “What is your only comfort in life and death?” Paul lived the answer. He unwaveringly believed that in life and death he belonged body and soul to his faithful savior, Jesus Christ.

A celebration of Paul’s life will be held at Eighth Reformed Church on Friday, April 11, 2025, at 11:00 am. Eighth Reformed Church is located at 841 Burton St., SW, Wyoming, MI 49509.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Paul R. Kramer, please visit our floral store.