Lee Kramer: 1947-2015

Lee Kramer, president of Xtreme Manufacturing, passed away on Jan. 18 due to complications with pneumonia, we have learned. Kramer was 67.

"Lee was not only our leader, but he was our mentor and our friend. He will be greatly missed by all at Xtreme Manufacturing, and by all who knew him. Lee was a true gentleman; an exceptionally kind and compassionate man who made a positive contribution to the lives of everyone who worked with him," Xtreme wrote in a statement.

Kramer was known throughout the industry as an engineer to his core, having studied Mechanical Engineering at the University of Illinois. Kramer then worked at Komatsu Dersser Company and then moved on to Blount, Inc., and Timberjack Corp. He joined the aerial work platform industry in 1999 with UpRight as an engineering manager.

Kramer spent two years with UpRight before moving to Fresno Engineering Design Group, it was after that when he met Don Ahern, owner of Ahern Rentals, Xtreme Manufacturing and Snorkel, in 2003, and became vice president of engineering for Xtreme.

"Lee played an integral role in the development of the first Xtreme telehandlers, and went on to lead the growth of the Xtreme manufacturing business as its President," the company said in a statement.

Lee is survived by his wife, Joan Kramer, of 34 years of marriage; their son, Justin; his wife Kathleen ("Kat"); and their daughter, Jordan.

There will be a memorial service for Kramer on Sunday Jan. 25 at 2 p.m. PST at the Xtreme Manufacturing facility, 1415 W. Bonanza Road, Las Vegas. All are welcome to attend.

There is also a Lee Kramer Memorial Fund being set up which the funds from will be used to benefit engineering students.