Karen Kramer

Karen Kramer, 72, of Canton, passed away peacefully at her home on Thursday, March 2, 2023, after she was challenged by cancer. She was the loving wife of Carl Kramer for 51 years.

Karen was born on January 15, 1951 in Taylorville, IL. She worked as a Registered Nurse in the Coronary Intensive Care Unit at Hartford Hospital for over 35 years. She was a longtime member of First Lutheran Church in Southington alongside her husband Rev. Carl Kramer. Karen owned and operated Optimal Being in Unionville for over 20 years where she was able to fulfill her passion for helping people through a holistic approach to healing. Even as she journeyed through her own health challenges, she did not let her illness define her. Karen loved being in nature and enjoyed kayaking, swimming and skiing.

In addition to her husband Carl, Karen is survived by her children, Kimberly Kramer of VA, Jonathon Kramer and wife Dawn of NC, Kerri Kramer Webb and husband Jeffrey of VA and Shannon Milliard and husband Christopher of Burlington, along with 2 cherished grandchildren, Jaxen and Aaralynn.  She is also survived by her sister, Linda McDermith of IL and many nieces and nephews. Karen was predeceased by her parents, Albert and Francis (Jenkins) Abel and 3 siblings, Barbara Canion, Virginia Ostermeier and Terrence Ostermeier.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Karen’s memory may be made to the First Lutheran Church, 232 Bristol St., Southington, CT 06489 or to a Cancer Research Fund of the donor’s choice.

A Celebration of Karen’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, March 7, 2023 at the First Lutheran Church, 232 Bristol St., Southington. Karen requested a celebration! In honor of her life, please wear bright colors/no black. Burial will follow in South End Cemetery, Southington. Refreshments will be served immediately following the services.  Plantsville Funeral Home has been entrusted with handling the arrangements. For online condolences and directions, please visit www.plantsvillefuneralhome.com.