Donna Kramer

On February 19th, 2024, our dear mother, Donna Mary Kramer (Richardson), fondly known as "Gabby" by her grandchildren, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by so much love.

She was 93 years old, preceded in death by her loving husband James Kramer, daughter Sheila Kramer, father John Richardson, mother Catherine Buckley Richardson, brothers Bill Richardson (Jean-deceased), and infant brother Harry Richardson. Donna is survived by her children, Kevin Kramer (Therese-deceased), Lisa Shammo (Dennis), and Karen Shaffer (Jeff). Gabby is also survived by her grandchildren: Patrick Kramer (Emily), Paul Kramer, Riley Kramer (Ghamar Bitar), Anne Kramer, Dillon Shammo (Tammy), Kasey McCaw (J.C.), Haleigh Shammo (Matt Davis), Sheila Shaffer, Kate Shaffer (Mike Minnick), Anna Wood (Steve), and Mary Claire Shaffer (Joey Powell) as well as great grandchildren, Riley B. Kramer, Charlotte and Rosie McCaw, and Damien and Raven Wood.

Gabby was born on September 1st, 1930 in Mount Pleasant, Pennsylvania. She later moved to Akron, Ohio when the coal mines closed; she was very proud to be a coal miner's daughter. She graduated from St. Vincent High School, then moved to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to attend St. Francis School of Nursing - where she unfortunately became a huge Pittsburgh Steelers fan.

Upon graduating as a Registered Nurse, Donna moved back to Akron and worked at St. Thomas Hospital. She then met her best friend and soulmate, James and they were married for almost 50 years before his death. They had four children, Gabby stayed home to raise them, and went on to volunteer as a school nurse at St. Hillary & St. Vincent schools, taught health to special education students at The Elms, and became an active member of the Christ Child Society, where she was honored for over 50 years of service. Gabby also volunteered at St. Bernard's church for many years; our dad proposed to mom at St. Bernard's and it was our first parish as a family. Once her children were grown, Gabby went back to nursing full time, working in the OBGYN

field. Gabby gave strength and wisdom when others needed it. She provided so much joy, laughter, and compassion to all her patients and loved ones. She always said "Once a nurse, always a nurse."

Gabby bonded with her children and grandchildren over her love of sports-always rooting for (and betting on) Cleveland teams, except for when they played The Steelers. She was so proud of her Irish heritage and was lucky enough to travel to Ireland many times; she instilled that same love in her children and grandchildren who will definitely be having a "hooley in the kitchen" in her honor!

Mom's life was a blessing, and our memories a treasure. The world is a better place because of mothers like you. We love you to the moon and back!

Mass of Christian Burial will be 1:00pm Friday, April 19 at St. Hilary Catholic Church, where calling hours will be one hour prior. Inurnment to follow at Holy Cross Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please honor Gabby's giving nature by donating to your favorite charity in her name.

"Don't remember me with sadness,

Don't remember me with tears,

Remember all the laughter,

We've shared throughout the years.

-

Please don't be unhappy

Just because I'm out of sight,

Remember that I'm with you

Each morning, noon and night."

- Verse 45, Remember Me Poem -