Lee Kramer, president of Xtreme Manufacturing, passed away on Jan. 18, 2015 at age 67 due to complications from pneumonia.
"Lee was not only our leader, but he was our mentor and our friend," said a statement from the company. "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."
Kramer studied mechanical engineering at the University of Illinois, and started his career at Komatsu Dresser Company (previously known as Dresser Construction Equipment, International Harvester & Hough), before moving on to Blount Inc., and Timberjack Corp. He entered the aerial work platform industry in 1999 when he joined UpRight, based in Selma, CA, as engineering manager.
After a two-year stint with UpRight, Kramer moved to Fresno Engineering Design Group, before joining Don Ahern to start Xtreme Manufacturing in 2003. As vice president of engineering, he is said to have played an integral role in the development of the first Xtreme telehandlers, and went on to lead the growth of the Xtreme manufacturing business in his role as president.
Kramer is survived by his wife of 34 years, Joan Kramer; their son, Justin; and their daughter, Jordan.
There will be a memorial service for Kramer at 2 p.m. PST on Jan. 25 at the Xtreme Manufacturing facility located at 1415 W. Bonanza Road in Las Vegas. All are welcome to attend.
Xtreme Mfg. is in the process of setting up the Lee Kramer Memorial Fund for the benefit of engineering students.
