David Reed Cramer
April 28, 1952 – May 7, 2025

David "Dave" Reed Cramer passed away peacefully at home in Denton, Texas on May 7, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born in Pensacola, Florida on April 28, 1952, to Dean and Pat Cramer, Dave's early years were shaped by his father's service in the U.S. Navy, which took the family to several places around the country. While living on Lemoore Naval Base, CA 1967, Dave met Debi Rankin. What began as a teenage friendship later blossomed into love when they reunited in 2002. Dave and Debi were married on July 17th, 2003 and shared over two decades of life and love together.

Dave attended the University of Texas at Arlington where he studied Criminal Justice. He devoted 44 years and one month of distinguished service to the Texas Department of Public Safety as a Highway Patrol officer. Known for his commitment to keeping roads safe, Sergeant Cramer received numerous awards for safe driving and his vigilance in identifying and arresting impaired drivers. In 2012, he was critically injured in the line of duty and received the Texas Purple Heart from then-Governor Rick Perry. Though the injury nearly cost him his life, Dave's dedication was unwavering—he returned to duty a year later, despite the concerns of his wife and daughter.

Dave retired in 2018, closing a chapter of remarkable public service. In retirement, he cherished time with family, enjoyed travel, and remained a passionate golfer. Known throughout North Texas, Dave's reputation extended far beyond his uniform. His quick wit, piercing stare—affectionately known by loved ones as the "Cramer Stare"—and dry humor left lasting impressions on everyone who knew him.

Dave is preceded in death by his parents, Dean and Pat Cramer. He is survived by his stepmother, Sue Cramer; his beloved wife, Debi Cramer; his children: Laura Pittman and her husband Chris, along with their children Emma and Cooper; like-a-son Benjamin Finger;  Kyle MacNaughton and his wife Sarah, with their children Madeleine, Gordon, William, Callum, and Hazel; and Kari Harmon and her husband Luke, with their children Hayden, Cooper, Judah, and Benjamin. He is also survived by his sisters, Denise Carraway and her husband Andy, and Julie Conoscenti and her husband Frank.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at Denia Community Church, 610 Interstate 35 Frontage Road, Denton, TX.

Though deeply saddened by his passing, Dave's family rejoices in the assurance of his faith. A devoted Christian, Dave is now in the presence of his Savior, Jesus Christ. As Paul wrote in 2 Corinthians 5:8, "Yes, we are of good courage, and we would rather be away from the body and at home with the Lord."