Edward Stephen Kraemer

Edward Stephen. “Ed” Kraemer, 81, passed peacefully into heaven on November 20, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family after a courageous battle with cancer.

Born on July 4, 1944, in Plain, Wisconsin, to Rudolph and Marion Kraemer, Ed lived a life defined by integrity, faith, generosity, and an unshakeable work ethic. His values were formed early and carried through every chapter of his life.

Ed earned his engineering degree from Marquette University, where he also participated in ROTC. After graduation, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Army, serving with discipline and honor.

Following his military service, Ed began his career in the family business founded by his grandfather, Edward Kraemer. He moved to Ohio to manage the Ohio Division of Edward Kraemer and Sons, Inc., overseeing operations at the White Rock Quarry in Clay Center, Ohio. It was there, by choosing Ohio, that Ed found his best friend and the love of his life for 48 years — Maija. Their partnership was his greatest joy and the foundation of the life he cherished.

Driven by entrepreneurial spirit, Ed later purchased American Power Pull, a tool manufacturing company. Through decades of grit, business acumen, and unwavering determination, he grew and guided the company with the same steadfastness that defined his character. He eventually retired after selling the business, proud of the legacy he had built.

Outside of work, Ed was an avid outdoorsman. He loved hunting, fishing, and spending time at his treasured cabin on the Au Sable River, affectionately known as “The Palace in the Pines.” It was a place of deep peace, meaning, and connection to nature.

Ed was a man of Catholic faith, living his beliefs through quiet action — steadfast, honest, giving, and always willing to help or teach others. He had a “never quit” attitude, a calm strength, and a genuine kindness that drew people to him. He had many friends and was loved by many, leaving a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Ed is survived by his loving wife, Maija; his stepson, Jason Wyper, whom he loved as a son; his brother, David; his sisters, Felicia and Honora; and his loyal dogs, Boots and Rose, who were always by his side.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Rudolph and Marion; his father-in-law, Paul; his mother-in-law, Alma; his many loving dogs who greeted him in heaven; and several of his dearest friends.

A celebration of Ed’s life will be held Monday, November 24, 2025, from 4-7 pm at Walker Funeral Home, 5155 W. Sylvania Ave. The Funeral Mass for Ed will be Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at 10:30 am at Christ the King Catholic Church. Interment will follow in Toledo Memorial Park. 

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the hospice team for their compassion and dignity during Ed’s final days.

Ed leaves behind a legacy of perseverance, generosity, and unwavering love. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him, and he will be deeply and forever missed.