Barbara Lee "Judy" Kramer was born on August 7, 1939, and entered into everlasting life on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at the age of 86. The youngest of ten children, Judy grew up in Menominee, Michigan. She married Michael Kramer in August of 1959, and, after living along the East Coast, they returned to the Midwest moving to Wausau, Wisconsin in 1974.
With over 25 years of experience in the transportation industry, Judy worked as a Marketing Supervisor at WH Transportation and previously held the position of Director of Branch Services at Graebel Van Lines, where she began her career in 1974. She was also a certified transportation broker. From 1988 until 2015, Judy served as an ambassador for the Wausau Area Chamber of Commerce, utilizing her marketing skills to strengthen the organization’s membership.
In retirement, Judy and Mike founded Guardianship Services of Marathon County, providing financial stewardship for those in need from 2005 to 2017. Judy stayed active in retirement, cherishing her time spent with her book club, where she formed dear friendships and enjoyed the company of a close-knit group. She also served as secretary of the Wausau Women’s Metro Club, remaining actively involved in community activities. She also volunteered at the Grand Theater, served as a loaned executive for United Way, and supported the Performing Arts Foundation. She was a devoted member and volunteer of St. Michael's Parish for over 50 years. Judy attended the University of Wisconsin - Wausau and Stevens Point.
She is survived by her three loving daughters: Carlene “Carrie” (Doug) Haff, Jorgene “Jori” (Jim) Hartwig, and Michelle “Shelly” Kramer. Judy also leaves behind her sister, Mary Ann (Jerry) Milam, along with cherished nieces, nephews, relatives, wonderful neighbors, and dear friends.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Michael Kramer, parents, Maximilian and Augusta (nee Lyman) Paque, and eight siblings and their spouses: Doris (Don) Bergfors, Clarice (Chuck) Bronold, Jane (George) Rapaelian, Arnold (Bernadette) Paque, Ralph (Barbara) Paque, Francis (Rosemary) Paque, Henrietta (Cory) Janzen, and Henry (Joan) Paque.
Judy will be remembered for her unwavering dedication to her community, her professional accomplishments, and the immense love she had for her family. She loved to host family reunions in Wausau and rarely missed a gathering no matter where it was held.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all of Judy's caregivers, including Primrose Memory Care, Moments Hospice, and Interim Health Services. Their dedication was a true blessing, and it was clear that they genuinely loved Judy. In lieu of flowers, gifts in Judy's honor may be made to the Alzheimer's Association.
The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, December 2, 2025 at St. Michael Catholic Church, Wausau. Entombment will be in Memorial Chapel Mausoleum, Restlawn Memorial Park, Wausau. Visitation will be held on Tuesday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of services all at the church. Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, Wausau, is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com.
St. Michael Catholic Church
St. Michael Catholic Church
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