7/1/13

State Bar of Michigan Division Director of Information Technology Services William M. Kramer III, 47, died June 27 in Battle Creek following a long and courageous battle with cancer.

"Even before his illness, Will Kramer served as an exceptional role model at the Bar for integrity, diligence, dignity, and kindness," said SBM Executive Director Janet Welch. "He was the key player in making the State Bar of Michigan technologically competent and he played an indispensable role in its management. As he has struggled through the challenges of his illness, however, he has also become something even more important—an extraordinary example about how to live. No one ever fought harder to stay ahead of a deadly, advancing disease; no one has faced the fight with a more positive or selfless spirit."

Kramer joined the State Bar staff in 2000. His unique combination of business acumen and technological knowledge were instrumental in the State Bar's success in implementing the member portal, e-commerce, the technology task force, and Wi-Fi and meeting room advancements in the Michael Franck building in Lansing.

Kramer is survived by his wife, Suzanna S. (Simons) Kramer, their two children, William "Kiv", 17, and Alexandra "Allie",15, his father, William (Betty Baskin), his mother-in-law, Carol A. Simons (Michael Fulghum)); sister-in-law, Amy B. Watson (Barney); and niece, Lillian R. Watson. He was preceded in death by his mother, Rojene, brother, Michael, and father-in-law, David.

Visitation will be held from 1-4 p.m. July 1 at Pray Funeral Home, 410 W. Seminary St., Charlotte, and from 6-7 p.m. July 1 at St. Ann's Church in Bellevue, followed by the Rosary at 7 p.m. Services will be held at 3 p.m. July 2 at St. Mary's Church in Charlotte, followed by a beer and brats "Celebration, Will Kramer Style" at the church.

The flag in front of the Michael Franck building in Lansing will fly at half-mast, and many members of the State Bar staff will be attending Kramer's funeral on Tuesday afternoon.

Online condolences may be sent to the Kramer family at Pray Funeral Home.

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