Carrie Mae Kramer

Carrie Mae "Mimi" Kramer of Topeka passed on September 3, 2014. She was born in Bristow, OK, on April 20, 1924, the daughter of Wilson Clinton (of the Yuchi Nation) and Cubah (Martin) Clinton. Her Native name was Ta-shar-he-antay. After her mom's death in June 1931, her father remarried to Gladys (Warrick-Thompson) in July 1932. Carrie's childhood years in Bristow were shared with brothers Woodrow, Arthur and Robert "Bobby" and step-sister Betty Jo. She was baptized in the Baptist church but she converted to Catholicism after her Dad's marriage to step-mom Gladys. Mimi attended a private school a short time during her early teen years studying classical piano before returning to Bristow High where she accompanied all of the school musical groups on the piano. She later attended Bacone College, a liberal arts college.

Carrie married Joseph Christian "J. C." Kramer II in Bristow, OK at the home place on September 20, 1942. Shortly after they married they moved to Wichita to start their own business, Kramer Automatic Music. Their union was blessed with four children: Joseph Christian "Chris" III, Karolyn Kay, Kevin "Bingo" Clinton and Kim Joanna. Carrie helped J. C. with his music business for many years. When J. C. developed Parkinson's disease, Carrie provided all of his care for him at home before his passing at home with family on April 4, 1991.

Carrie has enjoyed and shared many hobbies including gourmet cooking, gardening, music, working puzzles, shopping and a boundless love for critters. She provided hope for many stray animals. Carrie loved the neighborhood kids. Her favorite holidays were Halloween and Christmas and she loved preparing for both events every year. Her love of children was expressed in many ways. One was her passion for St. Jude Children's Hospital.

Carrie moved to Topeka in late 2012 and lived at the Lexington Park Nursing Home. Even though she was there only a short time she fit in quickly. She was crowned as the Lexington Park Valentine Queen in 2013 and she enjoyed the camaraderie of her new friends.

During her lifetime Carrie suffered several major losses including her son Kevin "Bingo" who was killed in Viet Nam in 1971. Due to his loss she acquired the title of "Gold Star Mother". She lost granddaughter Tiffany Roles who was 5 years old when she passed in 1975. Over the years she also endured the loss of her parents and all of her siblings except for brother Robert "Bobby".

Carrie is survived by children are Joseph Christian (Christine) Kramer III, Topeka; Karolyn (Gene) Roles, Topeka; and Kim (Tom) Tottleben, Edwardsville, IL. She is also survived by grandchildren (Bret, James, Tiama, Cortney, Natasha, Katrina, Whitney and Danielle); 15 great-grandchildren and brother Robert "Bobby" (Katherine) Clinton, Harahan, LA.

Memorial contributions honoring Carrie may be made to St. Jude Children's Hospital, the Humane Society or to a charity of your choice. A graveside family service will be held at 3:30 pm on September 27 at Resthaven in Wichita. Visit www.dovecremation.com to leave a tribute or message of condolence. Dove Cremation & Funeral Service in Topeka and Resthaven Mortuary in Wichita are in charge of arrangements.