Denise "Dede" Ann Kramer

Denise "Dede" Ann Kramer, age 72, of Batesville, passed away on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at Christ Hospital in Cincinnati, surrounded by her loving family and friends.

Denise was born on November 18, 1952, in Bellefontaine, Ohio, the cherished daughter of the late Ernie Lord and Betty (Buckenroth) Lord. From an early age, Denise knew the man she would marry, telling her best friend in eighth grade that she would one day marry Steve Kramer. True to her word, she and Steve became friends, began dating after high school, and were married on February 5, 1972, in Bellefontaine. They celebrated 53 years of marriage, a testament to their deep bond.

This loving marriage was blessed with two daughters, Amy and Leah, whom Denise cherished above all. Denise could be described as a deeply loving person, happiest when giving of herself to others. She helped start PromiseTown Childcare Ministry and ran an in-home daycare while spending many years as a "day mommy" to numerous children, providing them with a nurturing and loving environment. Her greatest joy was being the keeper of her home and raising her children and grandchildren while often baking from scratch with ingredients grown in her own garden.

When her children were older, Denise pursued her passion for design and earned a degree in interior design at IVY Tech. A true creative, she enjoyed transforming houses into homes and businesses into welcoming spaces. Denise also worked as an activity director at a senior living home, bringing smiles and comfort to residents. Her love for her pets and wildlife was also a special part of her life.

Denise was a member of both Greenwood Christian Church and St. Peter’s “Finks” Church in Osgood, and long time member of Lamplighter Ministries (LL#4, family of Abigail). She was a kind and giving spirit, always willing to help others, and her legacy lives on through the many lives she touched.

She is survived by her beloved husband, Steve Kramer; daughters Amy Kramer and Leah Kramer, brother Bucky Lord and his wife Polly; sister-in-law Karen Baldwin (Bob); and grandchildren Andrew Jarod Oblak, Hanah and Malachi Carr, Dylan Kramer, and Rowan Kramer, along with several nieces and nephews.

Denise was preceded in death by her parents, Ernie and Betty Lord.

Visitation will be held on March 1, 2025, at Saint Peter’s “Finks” Church in Osgood from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM, with funeral services at 1:00 PM, officiated by Pastor Sandy Gruell, Rabbi Michael Delp and Pastor Samuel Willis. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Friends and family are invited to share in celebrating her life with a light luncheon afterwards. Family is requesting casual and non-mourning attire.

Online condolences and preferred flower orders may be placed at nealsfuneralhome.net. In lieu of flowers a donation maybe made to www.solovedcloset.com.