Martha Jane Kramer

Martha Jane Culbert Kramer passed away peacefully at Westminster Village in West Lafayette, Indiana, on July 25, 2024, surrounded by her loving family.
Born on February 17, 1937, in Cresco, Iowa, to Malcolm and Orpha Culbert, Martha’s life was a tapestry of love, dedication, and adventure. She began her academic journey at Iowa State University, where she joined the Delta Zeta sorority, before transferring to the University of Northern Iowa, graduating in 1957 with a degree in Education.
In 1958, Martha married the love of her life, Maurice Kramer, and they embarked on a new chapter at the Marine Corps Base in Quantico, Virginia, where Martha nurtured young minds as a teacher. Their children, Ann and Jane, brought her immense joy as they grew up in Iowa.
Martha’s passion for history and antiques led her to serve as the State President of the Questers in Iowa in 1969, an organization dedicated to the appreciation of antiques. She was also a successful business owner in Ames, Iowa, and held the esteemed position of Delta Zeta Alumni President for the State of Iowa in 1973.
Her entrepreneurial business spirit took her to State College, Pennsylvania, in 1980, and later to West Lafayette, Indiana, in 1984. In 1998, Martha and Maury embraced retirement in the sunny warmth of Sarasota, Florida, while maintaining a home in Cresco, Iowa.
Martha’s legacy lives on through her devoted husband, Maury Kramer; her beloved children, Ann (Mark) Brandyberry and Jane (Allen) Witt; her four cherished grandchildren Matt (Maggie) Brandyberry, Joe Brandyberry, Sarah Witt, Emma Witt; one precious great-grandchild, Landon Brandyberry; nieces, nephews and countless friends who were touched by her kindness and generosity.
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