Madonna Kramer

Madonna Kramer was born on June 20, 1929 in Earling Iowa to Anton and Johanna (Zimmerman) Koesters. She was a lifelong member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Earling where she was baptized, confirmed and attended school.

On March 30, 1948 Madonna was united in marriage to Alfons (Mike) Kramer at St. Joseph's Catholic Church. Seven children were born to this union; Carol, Connie, Rick, Kathy, Sandy, Deb and Lori.

Madonna was a busy homemaker. She enjoyed baking cinnamon rolls, breads and a variety of desserts. The cookie jar was always full. She enjoyed sewing clothing for her kids on an old sewing machine affectionately referred to as "you old heifer." In 1965 she began working at the Little Flower Haven as a CNA. She worked there for 37 years. It seemed she didn't require much sleep. Madonna was very helpful in the community by preparing many funeral and wedding luncheons. In her retirement years she embroidered and sewed quilts for her grandchildren. Many afternoons she could be found playing cards and dominos with her siblings

Madonna was very close to her Mother. She frequently took her shopping or any place the car would go (the car was also affectionately referred to as "you old heifer.")

On Madonna's 80th birthday the family started a tradition of having a "Zero Party," celebrating all family members who's birthday ended in a zero. There was a special appearance by "ELVIS" on her 90th birthday.

In 2022 Madonna became a resident of Elm Crest Senior Living in Harlan Iowa. She resided there until her death on March 19, 2025 at the age of 95 years, 8 months and 27 days.

She is preceded in death by her parents Anton and Johanna; her husband of 50 years, Alfons "Mike" Kramer; her grandson, Jason Cairney; sons-in-law, Ed Leinen and Lee Ring; her brothers Francis, Alvin "Oscar," and Robert Koesters.

She is survived by her children: Carol Leinen of Harlan, IA; Connie Kramer of Omaha, NE; Rick (Karla) Kramer of Harlan, IA; Kathy (Dave) Huntington of Plattsmouth, NE; Sandy Ring of Council Bluffs, IA; Deb (Larry) Heller of Dunlap, IA; and Lori (Tom) Svagera of Omaha, NE; 13 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren, 9 great-great-grandchildren, and her siblings: Alice Schwery of Westphalia, IA and Janice (Pete) Mahlberg of Earling, IA.