Bonnie Mae Kramer

She left this world peacefully on February 21. Bonnie expanded her circle of family, friends, and neighbors throughout her life, nurturing deep, lifelong relationships. Bonnie sought to improve the lives of everyone she knew through offers of gentle support, a listening ear, or a thoughtful gift. She seemed to always know what everyone needed.

Bonnie grew up in Santa Monica, and attended UCLA before devoting 35 years of her life to teaching at Madison and Roosevelt elementary schools. Sharing her own love of reading with struggling young readers was her passion and joy throughout her long career.

While at UCLA she met her loving husband, Stephen Max Kramer. Steve and Bonnie created a wonderful life together, and shared a bond that never wavered over their 38 years of marriage. Over the years, they enjoyed hosting friends and family at the beautiful home they shared with their children, Chris and Stephanie. They remained steadfast in their love and commitment to each other until his passing in 2005.

Bonnie enjoyed her 17 years of retirement and loved spending time with her family and friends. She enjoyed an unbelievably active social life, playing bridge with her group, having lunches with friends, attending book clubs and plays, and shopping for hours at a time--all while still managing to make regular trips up to the Bay Area to see her children and grandchildren.

Bonnie’s greatest gifts were her grandchildren, Max, Amara, Jude and Everett. She was deeply involved in their lives and made each of them feel extremely special with her unconditional love and support. Sharing family history, traditions, and Opa’s stories helped give her grandchildren a sense of who they are and where they came from. The family trip to Germany last summer that she had been planning for a decade will forever be cherished.

Bonnie is survived by her children Chris (Susan) and Stephanie, sister Louann (Wally), sister-in-law Linda, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Bonnie will be deeply missed and will be lovingly remembered by everyone who knew her. The light she brought to the world will continue to be honored as those who have known her live their lives to the fullest, following her example.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, April 1st at 11:00 am at Pierce Brothers Westwood Village Memorial Park & Mortuary. We welcome you to join us in honoring Bonnie by wearing a heart to her service. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN) at www.pancan.org.