Marilyn L. Cramer
August 31, 1929 - February 15, 2021
PLYMOUTH - Marilyn Louise Cramer (91) peacefully entered the presence of her Lord and Savior Jesus Monday evening Feb.15, in Miller’s Merry Manor Nursing Home, Plymouth. She was born in Lakeville, Aug. 31, 1929 as the eldest child of Russel F. Schutz and Frances Louise (Lawson) Schutz. She was preceded in death by her parents, son Dennis Cramer, grandson Joseph Cramer, a brother R. Fred Schutz, and sister Karen (Schutz) Weiss.
Marilyn is survived by her loving husband of 72 years, Ross L. Cramer of Miller’s Manor, Plymouth, Indiana and one sister, Ellen (Schutz) Hershberger of Bremen, Indiana. She is also survived by her children; Dr. Steven (Terri) Cramer of Cassopolis, Dale (Tricia) Cramer of Plymouth, Diane (Dennis) Berger of Plymouth, Dr. Michael (Cindi) Cramer of Mishawaka, Sharon (Jim) Mcintosh of Warsaw and daughter in law Marcia Cramer Hochstetler of Bremen. She is also survived by 18 grandchildren and 44 great-grandchildren.
Having grown up in the Lakeville and Lapaz areas, she attended both Lakeville H.S. and Lapaz H.S. She was active in her church and many high school activities including music, plays, cheerleading and amateur softball. A popular student, Marilyn was elected Prom Queen during her senior year. It was during this time that she met the love of her life, Ross L. Cramer. After graduating they were married on Sept. 12, 1948 at the Indiana Chapel, Lakeville. They were blessed with 72 wonderful years together and their commitment to each other was a great example to us all.
Growing up in a loving Christian home, Marilyn committed her life to Christ at a young age and thus developed a life-long affinity for bible study, teaching children’s vacation bible school and adult Sunday school, and for the music of the church. Over her many years she led bible classes at both Shiloh Wesleyan Church and Sunrise Chapel.
Home and family were central to Marilyn’s life. Her family is blessed to have many memories of her and dad’s constant presence at school and church events and also hosting large family gatherings around holidays where Mom’s wonderful cooking abilities were on full display...especially her famous cinnamon rolls. Her cooking also led to a stint as a guest with providing cooking recipes during the 1970’s on the Dorothy Frisk local noontime TV show. In addition, there were also wonderful family fishing vacations in Wisconsin and visits with them in Florida in their later years. An avid game player, she was a force to be reckoned with during retirement in Florida.
In addition to being a wonderful wife, homemaker, and mother/grandmother, she also had professional abilities. These led her to eventually becoming the Asst. Manager of the Plymouth Auto License branch and as a leader in the Marshall County GOP.
Most of all, we will remember Mom’s tremendous faith, positive outlook on life and indomitable spirit even during the most trying times...particularly this last year as she was plagued with several health issues and the limitations of the Covid 19 restrictions. Through it all she never lost her smile, quick wit, orneriness and ability to laugh at herself during these times. We rejoice in the fact that she is now in heaven with her Lord and many loved ones but will miss her wonderful presence in our daily lives.
A celebration of Marilyn’s life will be held on March 2, at the Plymouth Wesleyan Church, 11203 Michigan Road, Plymouth, at 2 p.m. with visitation held prior in the church from 12:30-2 p.m. Burial will follow in the New Oak Hill Cemetery, Plymouth.
In her honor memorial gifts may be made to Bethel University 1001 Bethel Circle, Mishawaka, Ind. 46545 or to the Plymouth Wesleyan Church.
Condolences may be sent to the family through the website: www.johnson-danielson.com