KRAMER, Darwin Edgar

March 9, 1939 — April 10, 2025

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Darwin Kramer, devoted husband, Dad, Grandpa and Brother. He passed away peacefully at home April 10, 2025, at age 86, surrounded by his family.

Darwin Edgar Kramer was born March 9,1939 in Maple Creek, Saskatchewan to Gottleib and Helena Kramer.

He spent his first years as a farm boy in Golden Prairie, Saskatchewan with his older brother Fred and younger sister Doreen – surrounded by many relatives also farming in the community. When Darwin was 5 years old, tragedy struck the family with the death of his father, and the trajectory of his life would be forever changed. Darwin’s life was shaped to have a deep-rooted commitment to family, a work ethic of perseverance and positivity, and a joy in life to serve others and create fun out of any situation.

Darwin began his career as a lineman for Saskatchewan Power when he was 17 years old. He quickly stood out as a leader and became foreman of his own crew, travelling around the province to different communities and job sites. He met Linda when he was working in the town of Gull Lake. They were married in 1965 and began their lifetime of adventures together, setting up their first home, and soon welcoming their first child, Mark. After 10 years with Sask. Power, Darwin moved his small family west in 1967 when he was recruited to work for West Kootenay Power in Kelowna, BC.

Darwin’s impact, dedication, work ethic and personality was well renowned throughout his 30+ year career with West Kootenay Power spanning various roles in building highline, substations, foreman, and management. Over this time period, Darwin and Linda had 3 more children, and they became a boisterous and busy family of 6. They nurtured their children, instilling values of faith, family, and hard work. This legacy continues through their 14 grandchildren, and 1 great-grandchild.

Darwin had a great love of fastball, playing throughout his teen years, including a championship at Provincial level. He coached all of his kids – taking several teams to BC Provincial Championships. He was one of 3 dedicated men who created the High Noon ball facility in Rutland.

Darwin and Linda were faithful members of First Lutheran Church since 1968 and were instrumental in numerous church programs, fundraisers, and projects. Darwin has had a lifetime of faith – serving others with his wide knowledge and expertise in every construction project imaginable, and always with a cheerful attitude. He filled his retirement years volunteering countless hours to the care and maintenance of First Lutheran Church and School.

Darwin and Linda had the great pleasure of travelling across the globe and extensively in Canada, the USA, and Mexico, spending many winters in the town of Guyabitos.

Darwin had a genuine interest in making connections with anyone he met, from neighbours to co-workers, the guys at Mara Lumber, or the waiter in a restaurant. He always had a wave, a smile and usually a joke for all he crossed paths with. He had enduring friendships from childhood and throughout all his work and travels. His home was always open to visitors, and he was known to pop in unannounced for a coffee with friends. Darwin always had extra time, compassion, and an uplifting word for those who were overlooked or had barriers to overcome.

Darwin loved curling, Saskatchewan Roughriders, baseball, hockey, cribbage, crokinole, sauerkraut, strudels, toothpicks, gardening, horseback riding, fixing stuff, road trips, Werther’s candies, BBQing, Charley Pride music, making jokes, and a cold Pilsner.

Darwin was predeceased by his father, Gottlieb Kramer (d. 1944); mother, Helena Kramer (d. 2001); and his brother, Fred Kramer (d. 2021). He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Linda; 4 children and their spouses, 14 grandchildren, 1 great-grandchild: son Mark (Lynn) – Hannah, Zachary, Matthew, and Cassandra; daughter Lisa (John) – Danielle (Sam and their daughter Savannah), John, Ryan, and Brad; son Paul (Dawn) – Emma (Tyson) and Rachel; daughter Nancy (Charles) – Luke, Landon, Kane, and Aspen. He is also survived by his devoted sister, Doreen (Don) Johnson; sister-in-law, Barbara Kramer; and beloved nieces and nephews.

He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the community who cherished his fun-loving spirit. From very humble beginnings, Darwin left this world a very rich man in all the important ways.

Memorial service for Darwin:
First Lutheran Church (The Sanctuary)
4091 Lakeshore Road, Kelowna, BC
Saturday, June 7, 2025, at 11:00 am (PDT)

Luncheon and fellowship to follow in the Church fellowship hall. If you are unable to attend in person, please join the family online by Livestream at the time of the service. A recording will be made available to view.

If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.

LIVESTREAM: A livestream link will be available here closer to the service date.