Ralph Kraemer

OBITUARY Ralph John Kraemer was born on September 20, 1920 in Parkers Prairie, MN, the son of Mathias and Anna (Thoennes) Kraemer. He graduated from Parkers Prairie High School. He then attended two years at St. John?s University before enlisting in the service. He served his country in the United States Coast Guard and the United States Navy, serving in the Pacific area. After the war he returned to Parkers Prairie, MN and joined his father and brother in the grain business at the Kraemer Elevator Co. On September 25, 1948, Ralph married Audrie Williams at the Church of St. Nicholas in Belle River, MN. Together they lived in Parkers Prairie where Ralph continued to work at the elevator. To this union nine children were born. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and golfing in his spare time, but spending time with his family was the most enjoyable for him. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus for over 60 years and a member of the Parkers Prairie American Legion Post #219 for 66 years. Ralph had a kind and generous heart and was a devoted Catholic attending daily mass. He was a friend to many and a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He will be missed by those who knew and loved him. Ralph J. Kraemer died of Pulmonary Fibrosis at his home surrounded by his family on Saturday, September 1, 2012. He is survived by his loving wife of almost 64 years Audrie Kraemer of Alexandria, MN; his children Peggy (Rick) Ostman of St. Michael, MN; Jane (Steve) Gahlon of Willmar, MN; Connie (Ryan) Bremmer of Granite Falls, MN; Alan Kraemer of Bloomington, MN; Thomas (Denise) Kraemer of Tulsa, OK; Carol (Patrick) Rice of Midvale, UT; Steve (Alana) Kraemer of Bishkek, Kyrkgzstan; Ann (Lee) Kirkegaard of Missoula, MT; Judy (Karl) Smith of Little Falls, MN; 24 grandchildren; 9 great grandchildren; and one sister Joan (Ray) Fuhrman of Jordan, MN. Ralph was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Raymond and George; and sisters Evelyn, Ethel, and Florence. A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Thursday, September 6, 2012 at St. Mary?s Catholic Church in Alexandria with the Reverend Steve Binsfeld officiating. Interment was in the St. Williams Catholic Cemetery in Parkers Prairie, MN. Casket Bearers were ________. Military Honors were performed by the Parker Prairie American Legion Post #219. Arrangements are with the Anderson Funeral Home in Alexandria www.andersonfuneral.net