Howard A. Kramer, Wickes Lumber carpenter, wood lathe artist, outdoorsman, baseball player

Howard A. Kramer died on Feb. 1, 2019 at Ephrata Manor following a two-year illness due to complications from a stroke.

He was born on April 10, 1928 in Stevens to the late Harvey A. and Annie (Steffy) Kramer. He was married to Betty Jane (Moyer) Kramer for over 69 years.

During his youth and young adult life Howard delighted in outdoors: hunting, trapping and working on various farms. He enjoyed playing the mandolin among friends. He was a talented player on the F & M Hat baseball teams of the late 40s and early 50s, as well as softball teams in the church league. He seldom turned down an invitation to play the card game Rook.

Howard worked as a carpenter for various local building contractors, last working in the mill shop of the former Wickes Lumber Co. He and Betty purchased a dilapidated property along Mill Road and transformed it into a picturesque and productive farm that was their home for over 30 years. He was a gifted creator of wood lathe turnings and various other wood crafts.

Howard was a former member of the Conrad Weiser Young Farmers and Denver Lions Club. His faith was nurtured as a life-long participant of Swamp Lutheran Church attending educational classes, serving on the finance committee and working on numerous maintenance projects. He lived out that faith much like the Apostle Paul’s reflects, “I have fought well. I have finished the race, and I have been faithful. I have been given the crown of God’s righteous.”

In addition to Betty, he is survived by a son: The Rev. Robert (Carolyn) Kramer; daughters: Nancy Leffler, Elsie (William) Lunger, and Peggy (Craig) Showalter; seven grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and a sister: Helen (John) Werner.

In addition to his parents he was predeceased by a brother: Edwin (June) Kramer; a sister: Florence (Melvin) Miller; in-laws: Charles and Mary (Harding) Moyer; and son-in-law: Galen Rudy.

A viewing will be held on Saturday, Feb. 9 beginning at 9:30 a.m. in the Donecker Chapel of Ephrata Manor. A Thanksgiving of Life will follow at 11 a.m. with Chaplain Ed Dickel presiding. Interment will take place in the Swamp Cemetery.

His family appreciates the care Howard received while a resident at Ephrata Manor.

Memorial contributions in Howard’s memory may be made to Ephrata Manor Benevolent Fund, 99 Bethany Road, Ephrata, PA 17522.

Arrangements by Roseboro Stradling Funeral & Cremation Services, Denver. Online condolences can be given at roseborostradling.com.