Mary Beth Kramer, instructor in chemistry, dies

Editor's note: This article was updated at 6 p.m., Oct. 15, 2012.

6:40 p.m., Oct. 14, 2012--Mary Beth Kramer, instructor in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, died of a heart attack on Sunday, Oct.14, at her home in West Chester, Pa. 

John L. Burmeister, Alumni Distinguished Professor and associate chairperson of the department, called her “one of the most upbeat persons I’ve ever known. She never seemed to be discouraged and was never daunted by any problem that she faced. In her mind, ‘things will always work out’ and, thanks to her untiring efforts, they usually did.”

He added, “Her passing has created a huge void in our department’s life. To say that she will be missed is a classic understatement.”

She taught approximately 800 students in several sections of Chem 103 and Chem 104.

A graduate of Villanova University, Ms. Kramer earned her master’s degree at UD in 1976, having worked in Burmeister’s research laboratory. After working in industry for a decade, she joined the UD faculty in 1986 and was an integral part of the Chem 103/104 courses in “General Chemistry.” 

She is survived by her husband, Geoff, and three children, Kirsten, Jennifer and Kurt.

A viewing will be held from 7-9 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 18, at Donohue's Funeral Home, West Chester Pike and Hilltop Avenue, West Chester. A funeral mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m., Friday, Oct. 19, at St. Maximilian Kolbe Church, 15 East Pleasant Grove Rd., West Chester.