COLUMBIANA - Paul Elrod Kramer, 78, passed away Tuesday evening, February 4, 2025, at Parkside Health Care in Columbiana after a brief and courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

Paul was born October 22, 1946, in Youngstown, the son of the late Robert "Red" Kramer and H. Jeanne Elrod Kramer. A lifelong resident of the Mahoning Valley, Paul was a proud graduate of Austintown Fitch High School, Class of 1964 and furthered his education at Youngstown State University.

In service to his country, Paul proudly joined the U.S. Marine Corps, in 1968, serving as a radio operator during the Vietnam War and attaining the rank of Corporal.

Paul worked for The Ohio Bell Telephone Company, where he met his wife, Debbie. He dedicated 32 years to the company as a lineman and splicer before retiring in 2004.

His deep sense of duty and patriotism carried over into civilian life. Paul's commitment to his fellow veterans was unwavering. He served as the Post Commander of VFW York Drexler Post 5532 in Washingtonville for 16 years. Additionally, he was a trustee at Joe Williams American Legion Post 131 and served as the Chaplain for their Bike Riders Group in Leetonia.

An adventurous spirit, Paul loved attending the annual Daytona Bike Week for 40 years and had a lifelong passion for motorcycles. He also found joy in the camaraderie of bowling leagues in Canfield and Struthers and was an avid hot rod drag racer, competing in several racing associations in the area. One of his proudest accomplishments was building his own T-Bucket-style hot rod racer. A self-described "frustrated mechanic," Paul was happiest when tinkering in his garage.

Paul gave generously of his time to his community. His dedication to youth sports extended to his work with the Mill Creek Jr. Baseball League, where he played a key role in the maintenance of Kramer Fields on Youngstown's West Side. He also coached Beeper Baseball, a sport designed for visually impaired children and volunteered at the Salem Super Kids Soap Box Derby events, helping provide opportunities for children with special needs to experience the thrill of racing.

Paul is survived by his wife of 48 years, Deborah Dubos Kramer, whom he married September 18, 1976; his two sisters, Janet (Bill) Helsel of Austintown and Cynthia Kramer of Austintown; two nieces, Tricia (Dave) Peters and Donna Helsel-Scott (Cliff); a nephew, Aaron Kramer; three great nieces, Faith Marscio, Haylie Peters and Julia Marscio; and a sister-in-law, Lisa Dubos of Texas.

Paul's life was one of service, passion, and dedication to his family, friends, and community. His legacy will be cherished by all who knew him.

A celebration of Paul's life will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at Washingtonville VFW 5532 York-Drexler Post located at 575 S. County Rd., Washingtonville, OH 44490 where a memorial service will take place at 1 p.m.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Kinnick Funeral Home in Youngstown.