Lester Cramer

IN MEMORY OF: Lester Cramer Serving Location: CRAIN FUNERAL HOME – MURPHYSBORO 1421 Walnut Street, Murphysboro, Illinois Lester H. Cramer, 90, passed away peacefully after a short illness on Saturday, March 11, 2023. He was born on April 21, 1932 in Centralia, IL to the late Arthur and Emma (Heseman) Cramer. He married Loraine Rebstock on August 15, 1954 and she survives. They shared over 68 wonderful years of marriage. Les graduated from Centralia High School. After a year at Concordia Lutheran College, Concordia, MO, and a year at Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, he joined the Army in 1953, serving until 1956. After his military service, he attended the Vocational Technical Institute of SIUC, graduating with an Associates Degree in Mechanical Drafting. While at VTI, he worked part-time at the SIU print shop as a proof reader and cameraman. After graduation, he began a full-time career with the University, eventually becoming the manager of the print shop. Before retirement, he served the University in several capacities, including a time with Auxiliary Enterprises and retiring as the Associate Director of University Graphics and Publications. Les and Loraine enjoyed several trips and cruises with close friends over the years. They visited Germany, the Rivers of Europe, Canada and cruised through the Panama Canal. Les’ loves included his faith and church, his family, fishing, bowling and wood working. Lester is survived by his wife, Loraine of Murphysboro and their sons of Murphysboro, Bryce (Janet), and Bryan (Kim); grandchildren Shaun (Jen Fyke) of New Lenox, Amanda (Trenten Kessler) of University City, Mo, and Tony (Michelle) of Carterville; three great-grandchildren; sister-in-law Minnette Cramer of Hoyleton, IL, sister-in law Louise (Rebstock) Doering of Springfield, Mo, brother-in-law James Rebstock (Linda) of Friendswood, Tx, and several nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, brother Leroy, brother-in-law Charles Schalk and his wife Margaret (Rebstock), and brother-in-law William Doering. A Christian burial service will be held on Friday, March 17, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at the Immanuel Lutheran Church, 1915 Pine St, Murphysboro, IL with Reverend Matthew Christian officiating. Interment will follow at Murdale Gardens of Memory, Murphysboro, IL. Friends may visit at Crain Funeral Home, 1421 Walnut St, Murphysboro, on Thursday, March 16, from 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. or at the church from 10:00 a.m. to time of service. The service may be viewed on-line on Immanuel Lutheran Church’s YouTube channel. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Immanuel Lutheran Church, the Immanuel Lutheran Church Disaster Response program, the LCMS Joint Seminary Fund or charity of your choice.

Lester Cramer

April 21, 1932 - March 11, 2023