Bernard “Ben” Leo Kramer, age 72, of Oaktown, Indiana, passed away on September 18, 2026, in his hometown. He was born on July 1, 1954, in Vincennes, Indiana, and lived a life marked by devotion to his family, steady work, and a wide range of interests that brought him joy and purpose.
Ben graduated from North Knox High School in 1972 and built a respected career with Pepsi Cola for 45 years. He was known for his strong work ethic, dependability, and quiet confidence and integrity. Throughout his career and in all areas of life, he valued hard work and responsibility.
On June 24, 1972, Ben married the love of his life, Mary Frances (Goracke) Kramer, in Vincennes, Indiana. Their marriage was a lasting partnership filled with love, loyalty, and shared memories. Together they built a family that was the center of Ben’s world, and he took great pride in being a husband, father, and grandfather.
He is survived by his wife, Mary; his children, Melanie Dupuy (Chris) of New Orleans, Louisiana, Andrea Mair (David) of Zionsville, Indiana, and Derek Kramer (Anna) of Zionsville, Indiana; his seven grandchildren, Kayla Dupuy, Nick Dupuy, Olivia Dupuy, Evan Mair, Ella Mair, Ben Kramer, and Miles Kramer; and his two sisters, Brenda Cameron (Chris), and Pamela Langferman (Dale). He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Vera (Later) Kramer.
Ben had many interests that reflected his curiosity and appreciation for the world around him. He loved radio-controlled airplanes, model railroading, aviation, gunsmithing, reloading and WW2 history. He took pride in his garden and found equal joy in sharing what he grew with others. He had a love for trees and the outdoors; he appreciated the simply beauty of nature and found happiness in being outside. He was a great storyteller, quick witted, and always had a joke to hold the attention in the room. He had a way of turning almost anything into a game or friendly competition and somehow making everyone want to join in. He was creative, clever, and fun-loving and brought laughter, stories, and a little competitive spirit wherever he went. He also enjoyed teaching and coaching others, sharing his knowledge and encouragement in ways that left a lasting impression on those around him.
He was a member of the Washington R/C flying club and St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church. These affiliations reflected his interests, his values, and his connection to the communities that mattered to him.
His memory will live on in the hearts of his family and friends, who will cherish the many ways he enriched their lives. Ben’s life was one of dedication, kindness, and enduring love, and he will be deeply missed.
A visitation will be held on Saturday, September 26, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., at Fredrick and Son McClure-Utt Funeral Home, Vincennes Chapel. Mass will follow at 12:00 p.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, officiated by Father Ernst. Following Mass, Ben will be cremated. Memorial donations may be made to the Indiana Military Museum. Online condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.fredrickandson.com. Fredrick and Son McClure-Utt Funeral Home, Vincennes Chapel, is honored to be entrusted with Ben’s arrangements.
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