Steven Dale Kramer

Steven Dale Kramer was born on October 19, 1957, to Max and Mildred Kramer in Burlington, CO. He was the second oldest of his four siblings. He grew up helping on the family farm north of Bethune.

During his senior year of high school, Steve had a work study with Shulda Electric. Steve graduated from Bethune High School in 1976, after which he began working on the family farm. In 1979, Steve worked for Kruger Electric full time, along with working evenings and weekends on the farm. In 1982, the opportunity arose for Steve to return to the farm. He then spent the rest of his life tending to the farm he had loved since childhood.

Shortly before Valentine’s Day in 1979 he met Christine. They married on June 20, 1980 and lived in Burlington. They welcomed their first son Byron in 1981. Five years later, their family was complete when they welcomed Jason.

Steve was a faith-centered leader for the family he adored, with a passion for farming the land. He was a natural-born, well-respected farmer who took pride in passing on his knowledge to his sons and grandchildren.

In the early 1990’s Steve began serving on the Plains Groundwater Board, with the understanding of how important water is to Eastern Colorado. So, when the RRWCD was established in 2004, he became one of the original members and remained one until he passed. He served one term on the State Water Commission in order to help preserve water for future generations. Steve also served 18 years on the Stratton Coop board.

Steve is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Christine; his son Byron and his wife Michelle (Ella and Mason); his son Jason and his wife Kristen (Maverick, Daxton, and Kyler). He is also survived by is siblings Sherry, Stan, and Nathan, his mother-in-law Donna White , along with many beloved relatives and friends.

Steve is preceded in death by his parents, Max and Mildred Kramer.

A family friend said it best: “He was a man of integrity, strength, and orneriness. What a legacy he leaves behind in all of you.”

In Lieu of Flowers, memorial contributions may be made out to the Burlington Volunteer Fire Department and may be left at the services or mailed to Koons-Russell Funeral Home, 211 N. Main Ave., Goodland, KS 67735.