Randy Joe Kramer, 64, of Stapleton died October 4, 2016, on the feast day of his beloved St. Francis of Assisi. He was born March 3, 1952, in North Platte to Harold and Minnie Juanita (Hodges) Kramer of Stapleton. He lived his entire life in Lincoln and Logan counties. Randy spent his time sowing seeds of corn, wheat, and soy beans, as well as peace and good will wherever he went. On July 29, 1978, he married his high school sweetheart, Monica Kramer. To this union were born three wonderful children, Moriah Elizabeth, Nathan Nicholas, and Joshua Joseph.
Randy graduated from Stapleton High School with the class of 1970. He graduated from the University of Nebraska in 1974 with degrees in Animal Science and Agriculture. Randy was a member of the Ag Men Fraternity and many of his friends from high school and college remained lifelong friends.
Randy’s career path was directed toward agriculture. After graduating from college he worked at Chadron State College designing a cooperative agricultural program with other colleges in the United States. He then worked as a research assistant at the North Platte Experiment Station, now known as the University of Nebraska Research Center. He then began his farming career in Logan county working beside his father.
Randy was always concerned about the land. He knew and appreciated the delicate balance of the eco-system and how it would affect our environment. He looked forward to spring and fall; a time to sow and a time to reap the harvest.
In the early 80’s he was recognized as the Outstanding Young Farmer in the area. He was also a long standing board member of the Logan County Coop. Randy spent numerous hours “talking over” and strategizing farming ideas with his friends. They respected his quick wit and ability to bring optimism to nearly every situation.
Randy enjoyed people, and most of all he loved his family. His children and grandchildren were the stars of his life. Card playing, hunting, fishing, coin collecting, and St. Pat’s Irish football were among the many recreational activities he enjoyed.
Randy’s faith was very important to him. He loved his creator, Jesus Christ, and saw His goodness manifested in people and nature. He and his wife Monica shared their faith by teaching catechism to young adults, serving as camp counselors at Outward Bound and retreats, and presenting talks at Marriage Encounter weekends.
Randy is survived by his wife, Monica; his three children and their families, Moriah (Josh) Eickhoff and their children Elise and Jase, Nathan (special friend, Tricia Facka) and Nathan’s daughter, MacKena, and Joshua (Jennifer) Kramer and their son Peyton; and a sister, Deanna McDonald.
Randy was preceded in death by his parents; father-in-law, Wayne Kramer; brother-in-law, John McDonald; niece, Sarah McDonald; and an infant sister, Janice Marlene.
Lord, thank you for making Randy a channel of your peace.
Memorials may be made in his name and online condolences may be shared at www.adamsswanson.com.
Services will be held Friday, October 7, 2016 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church with the Reverends C.P. Varghese and James Golka as co-celebrants. Christian Wake Service will be 1:30 p.m. with Mass of Christian Burial at 3:00 p.m.
Visitation will be noon – 9:00 p.m. with the family receiving friends 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. today, October 6, 2016 at Adams & Swanson Funeral Home which is in charge of arrangements.
McCook – The North Platte Community College Lady Knights volleyball team were defeated in three sets