Richard "Dick" William Cramer

Predeceased by his parents James and Dorothy Cramer, his loving wife Colleen “Kelly” Cramer, Brother-in-law Anthony “Tony” Hartmann, his former wife Janis Jetty Godsey, and Son-in-law Drew Johnston.

He is survived by his sisters Barbara Hartmann and Gail (Rick) Newberg, his loving children: Lisa Cramer, Carrie (Jason) Phillips, Geordie (Christina) Klueber, and Gretchen Klueber-Ippolito, his self appointed honorary son Jan (Sandy) Nichols rounded out this list. His grandchildren Kaylei(Steve), Roberta, Erin, Blayne, Rosie aka Bubba, and Niko, who brought him so much joy, and 11 great grandchildren -Steven, Matthew, Isaac, Lucas, Colby, Kyleigh, Bri, Emma, Rylan, Layla, and Anthony. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, extended family and dear friends.

Richard William Cramer was the ultimate wild card! Picture this: a poker-playing, hard-hat-throwing, Jack Daniels-sipping, firetruck-driving, jitterbugging man’s man who lived life to the fullest.

Defining him was like trying to catch a greased pig, but let’s give it a shot. Over his 82 years, he wore many hats—literally and figuratively. He started as a son and little brother, quickly leveling up to big brother. His title collection included Nephew, Pop, Papa, Friend, Husband, Lineman, Fireman, Chief, Boss, @$$#*<€, and of course, “Cramer.”

As a kid, he was the ringleader of outdoor adventures, building forts, playing baseball, blazing trails, climbing trees, and running wild like any little boy should.

His interests blossomed into a lifelong passion for dancing. His baby sister Gail adored those moments when she could twirl with her big brother, her idol. And when it came to cards, games and gambling, Richard was a pro. Vegas or Atlantic City vacations were his playground, and he often returned “even,” with his winnings covering the trip. On trips with his Sister Barbara, you could find him on the golf course wheeling around in the Golf cart like it was a big rig, enjoying every moment.

Challenges were his middle name, and he was the first person people called when they needed a hand. He transformed into all business until he cracked the code, always working hard but playing even harder.

For 42 years, Richard volunteered as a first responder with the Brighton Fire Department, holding various positions like trainer and officer. He even commanded his own father, a paid fireman, as Chief. Battalion Chief of Brighton 3 was another title he wore with pride multiple times. A natural-born leader, he was the calm in the storm—or the storm itself!

Raised by him was no walk in the park. With a driving permit came tales of accident scenes he had witnessed, the sad outcomes, and the little things that could have prevented tragedy. His lessons were more effective than Drivers Ed. 

As a Lineman, Richard was the hero of Monroe County. Before computers, he had the entire electrical network memorized. During the Ice Storm of ’91, he worked tirelessly to restore power, even hooking up many houses safely from his own to provide heat. He clocked in 20-hour days for weeks, ensuring everyone was back online and ready for the next challenge.

If you ever needed help, Richard was your go-to guy. He’d arrive with a toolbox full of gadgets and soon your problem would be solved, and your place would be spotless.

He was both the most ruthless and the kindest man on the planet, only showing his ruthless side when defending his own or the underdog.

Though he had his flaws, the family has decided to let those rest with him. In the end, Richard truly lived by this quote:

“Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside in a cloud of smoke, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming ‘Wow! What a Ride!” ― Hunter S. Thompson, The Proud Highway: Saga of a Desperate Southern

You are hereby invited to Cramer's last stand. His last Hoorah! Literally. June 21, 2025 1-5pm, Last Bell at 3 pm. Let’s come together to celebrate the incredible man, the legendary figure, and the icon we all know. He may have had many names, but we want you to join us in honoring his remarkable legacy. Guess what? We’re throwing a party! It’s going to be the ultimate party, because it’s his last one on earth. And we’re making it extra special, with all the bells and whistles!  We are going to do it the right way, the Cramer way- unconventionally! We’ve got a blast planned for you! We’ll have poker, card games, a wheelchair obstacle course-races and relays, food, and a cash bar. And guess what? We’ve even set up a selfie station with the man of honor himself! (Now you know you’re in for a treat, right?) Come on over and let’s have a fun time! We can grill a dog, grab some yummy food, and play some friendly 5 card stud. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, try your luck at winning a prize in the wheelchair games using his very own wheelchairs! It’ll be a blast! We’d really appreciate it if you could share this with anyone who loved and cared for our dad.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the Lakeville Volunteer Exempt Firemen's Benevolent Association PO Box 72, Lakeville, NY

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