In Play Magazine
ALLEN PARK, MICH. – Ron Kramer, football legend, has died at the age of 75. Kramer played for the Lions for three seasons, 1965-67 to conclude his NFL career. He finished his 10-year NFL career with 229 receptions for 3,272 yards (14.3 avg.) and 16 touchdowns in 128 games.
“On behalf of the William Clay Ford Family and the Detroit Lions organization, we would like to extend our deepest sympathies to Ron’s children, Kurt and Cassandra, and his extended family and friends,” said Lions President Tom Lewand. “He is one of Detroit’s most accomplished athletes, and his achievements in high school at East Detroit High School, at Michigan and in the NFL with the Lions and Packers, along with his work off the field, are immeasurable. It was so fitting that Ron ended his prestigious career playing for his hometown team. Over the years, Ron was not only an active member but he was a great leader of the Lions’ Alumni. He will be dearly missed.”
Kramer had a decorated career at the University of Michigan, where he is just one of five players to have his jersey retired in school history. He wore No. 87 for the Wolverines. Following his stellar college career, Kramer was drafted by the Green Bay Packers and had a very productive seven-year career there before finishing his NFL career back in his home state of Michigan with the Lions.
The all-state prep star at East Detroit High moved on to the University of Michigan. At Michigan, Kramer handled a variety of roles as a two-time All-American on the football team – blocker, receiver, punter, kicker, linebacker, and even occasionally running back. A nine-letter winner as a multi-sport star, Kramer was also a three-time team MVP and leading scorer in basketball and a top shot putter and high jumper on the track and field squad.
Kramer was the President of the Lions’ Alumni Association for several years, a position his son Kurt said made his father proud. He stayed in Michigan following his football career and was active in the local community helping countless charities throughout the years.
Kramer is survived by his son, Kurt, daughter Cassandra, daughter-in-law Dawn, son-in-law Brian and grandchildren Kurt, Heidi and Kelsey.
Funeral arrangements are incomplete and will be announced later.
