Laurel Kramer

Laurel C. “Bud” Kramer, 98, of Waupun, died Sunday, March 20, 2016 at The Christian Homestead in Waupun.

Laurel was born September 20, 1917 in Baraboo, WI the son of Laurel and Ida Chase Kramer. Laurel was a graduate of Baraboo High School. Following graduation Laurel enlisted in the U.S. Army, served for 23 years, and retired as a First Sergeant. During his career he served for 30 months in the Pacific Theater in WWII and also served in the Korean War. Laurel married Alice Sommers on June 22, 1946 in Reedsburg. The couple resided in a variety of places until he retired from the military and then moved to Waupun in 1963. Laurel was employed by the Wisconsin Department of Corrections and worked at Waupun State Prison for 20 years. Laurel enjoyed flowers, gardening, family, and visiting relatives. He was always available to help in family projects, always putting others first. Laurel was a member of American Legion Post 210 in Waupun and also Pella Lutheran Church.

Laurel is survived by his wife, Alice Kramer of Waupun; two daughters: Karol (Arlyn) Harmsen of Waupun and Lora Krueger of Waupun; five grandchildren: Joel (Jennifer) Harmsen of Oakfield, Jason (Crystal) Harmsen of Fox Lake, Chad (Jennifer) Harmsen of Brandon, Kurt (Tammy) Krueger of West Chicago, IL, and Jeff (Stephanie) Krueger of Oshkosh; 11 great-grandchildren: Calvin, Carter, Austin, Evan, Alexus, Aidan, and Axel Harmsen, and Trenton, Helayna, Logan, and Lauren Krueger; a brother, Denman Kramer of Prairie du Sac; two brothers-in-law; and a sister-in-law.

Laurel was preceded in death by a son-in-law, Randy Krueger; and a sister, Helen Madalon.




Friends and relatives may call on the family at Werner-Harmsen Funeral Home on Tuesday from 5-7 p.m. and on Wednesday at the church from 10:30 a.m. until the time of service.


Funeral services for Laurel Kramer will be held Wednesday, March 23, 2016 at 11:30 a.m. at Pella Lutheran Church in Waupun with Rev. David Knuth officiating.


Burial will follow at Forest Mound Cemetery in Waupun. American Legion Post 210 will provide military honors.