George Fredrick Kramer

Sgt. George Fredrick Kramer (US Air Force), 86 of Stacy, MN passed away on April 25, 2026. He was born 5 minutes after his identical twin brother, Donald Kramer, on August 6, 1939, to Fredrick and Gertrude in Richfield, MN.

George and Don were inseparable throughout their lives. They shared countless passions and, most importantly, creating a home together. They joined the military at the same time, began working at the same company on the very same day, and even retired together.

George lived a life rooted in hard work and a love for the people and land around him. As a young boy, he helped tend 60 acres of the family vegetable garden, an experience that shaped his lifelong passion for growing things and caring for the earth. As a boy, he had a paper route that included Will Steger, worked as a stock manager at Klein’s, and spent a lot of time at the local Bade Bowling Alley as a pin setter.

In 1961, George proudly joined the Air Force, standing side by side with his twin. Together, they served in Minot, North Dakota, they worked on missile systems. While stationed at Keesler Air Force base in Biloxi, Mississippi they volunteered for hospital shifts, mail room tasks, and KP - sneaking extra cinnamon rolls after spending hours on frosting duty.

After his service, George became an important part of the team at Control Data, where he remained for 32 years and helped build computers during a time of rapid technological change. His work took him across the globe including China, giving him a chance to see the world.

In 1969, George and Don purchased 80 acres in Stacy, Minnesota, where they built their home and created what was called Wild Wood Acres. The land earned its name from the abundance of Ruffed Grouse that roamed the property. It became much more than a home—it was a place of family gatherings, laughter, and a big part of the community. With cows, horses, and an expansive garden, the property drew curious visitors who would often stop and ask if they could simply “walk through” the gardens.

In 1979, George and Don started a Boy Scout troop in their basement. What began as a small effort grew over 18 years into something extraordinary, with jamborees hosted right on their land, welcoming more than 250 scouts – both boys and girls. They led troops on many camping excursions to Black Hills, Yellowstone, Grand Tetons, and Boundary Waters. There, young people learned outdoor skills, built igloos and camped under the open sky to earned badges—creating memories that would last a lifetime.

George found joy in life’s simple pleasures: tending his garden, fishing at their cabin, watching birds, playing games, and sharing happy hours with family. George was rarely idle, always immersed in one project or another. He was an avid photographer, wood carver, and enjoyed making bird houses. Known for his quick wit, he delighted in a good joke—whether he was the one delivering it or responding with a clever retort.

Above all, George will be remembered for the life he built with his brother and the people he brought together. His legacy lives on in the land he nurtured, and the countless memories shared with those who knew and loved him. His family will miss him deeply and will carry his memory forward with love.

Survived by siblings, Don Kramer, Ed (Karen) Kramer, Mary Ann Wenner, Martha Thorp, Carolyn (Basil) Lilyquist; sister-in-law, Terry Kramer, and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. Preceded in death by his parents, Fredrick and Gertrude; his brother, Roman Kramer, and brothers-in-law, David Wenner, and Terry Thorp.

There will be a visitation on May 4, 2026, from 10:00-11:00 with service to follow at 11:00 am at Mattson Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 343 North Shore Drive, Forest Lake, Minnesota.