Richard W. Kramer, 81, of Pine Cove, went to be with our Lord and loved ones on Thursday, Jan. 17, 2008.

He was born Nov. 6, 1926 in Cape Girardeau, Mo., to Ivan and Ruby Kramer.

Richard enlisted in the Merchant Marines at age 17, and was drafted after five years to serve in the Army in which he served in World War II and the Korean War. He retired from the military in 1973, at which time he was Capt. Kramer with the California Army National Guard.

In 1953, he met and married the love of his life, Marilyn Brewer. They had four children.

In 1954, he attended the police academy and became a Los Angeles County marshal. He retired from the force in 1981.

Richard also was a very active member of the Masonic Lodge, where he served as a master to his lodge three times. He also was a member of the Shriners and the Al Malika, associated bodies of the Masonic Lodge, as well as the Mile High Radio Club, Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Services, Elks Lodge and American Legion.

His passion for salmon fishing on the Klamath River, and being with his extended family and friends encompassed more than 40 years.

A memorial service is scheduled for 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 26, at Valley Christian Church, 26755 Alessandro Ave., Moreno Valley. A Masonic memorial service is scheduled for Feb. 2 at the San Jacinto Lodge for his Masonic brothers. Weaver Mortuary in Beaumont is handling arrangements.

Richard is survived by two sons, Roger and wife Lori Kramer, and Mark and wife Debbie Kramer; two daughters, Cyndi Kramer and Kimberly Morehead; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Richard’s parents, his brother Ivan, his wife Marilyn and his granddaughter Aubrey Morehead all preceded him in death.