Wayne Allen Kramer

Wayne Allen Kramer

August 9, 1939 - August 17, 2026

Wayne was born August 9, 1939 to Oliver A. and Eva I. [Inez] Kramer, at Swedish American Hospital, Rockford, IL. He is the grandson of Nellie and Ferdinan Joseph Kramer, and Theordore and Joanna Petersen.

In October 1962, Wayne married Sarah (Sally) Adams, divorced in May of 1971, then met and married Jacqueline (Jackie) Lee Hepner in October 1972. Jackie passed away on May 11 of this year. They had two sons, James “Bret” (Jennifer) of Goshen, Mark (deceased), and daughter Jenny of Freeport, IL, and grandchildren, Chase, Jourdan, Dayne, Hallie, Sarah, and Drew and great grandchildren Dawson and Lacey.

Wayne graduated from DePauw University and was professionally educated at the School of Bank Marketing, University of Wisconsin, Madison. His advanced education was interrupted by Wayne’s volunteering to serve our country in the United States Air Force. Wayne entered Officer Training School [OTS] at Kelly Air Force Base, San Antonio, TX and was commissioned as a First Lieutenant in June 1962. Wayne specialized in aerial reconnaissance including photo, radar intelligence.

Wayne served during the US advisory period in Vietnam. He served 5½ years active duty, 14½ years in the Air Reserve at O’Hare Field. Wayne served his final years in military service as a Senior Instructor in the Armed Forces Air Intelligence Training Center [AFAITC]. He received his Honorable Discharge in July 1976. 

Upon returning to civilian life, Wayne embarked on a career in banking with the State Bank of Freeport IL, and subsequently as Vice President with Salem Bank and Trust Company in Goshen, IN. In the 1980’s, he served as District Director for Congressman John Hiler, and then President, Sheffer Advertising in South Bend, IN. Wayne was President and Founder, BenchMarketing (South Bend) 1990-2004, and Co-founder and President, Bank Marketing Association. He served as Treasurer, First Presbyterian Church, Goshen, for over 19 years prior to his retirement. Wayne has served the Elkhart and Goshen communities as President, Goshen Housing Authority; Board member, Elkhart County 4-H Fair for 24 years; Board member and Chairman, Elkhart County Election Board (24 years); Board member and Treasurer, Elkhart Symphony; and Treasurer, Big Brothers of Elkhart County. Outstanding Election Board Member for State of Indiana, 2023. Audrey Russell award for Outstanding Board Member,Boys and Girls Club

Wayne and Jackie enjoyed their friends from the Friday night dinner group, trying new restaurants and returning to their favorites, including Maplecrest. Valued were their faith, family, friends, and home. Wayne passed away peacefully on August 17th.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the First Presbyterian Church, 215 E. Lincoln Ave. in Goshen on Sunday, September 13th at 11:30 AM.