Robert E. Kramek "Bob"  

Admiral U. S. Coast Guard (Ret.)  

passed away on October 20, 2016. Adm. Kramek was born on December 15, 1939, and raised in New York. He graduated from the Coast Guard Academy in 1961 with a B.S. in engineering. He also attended the University of Michigan, Johns Hopkins University, the University of Alaska, and the U.S. Naval War College, graduating with highest distinction. He earned Masters of Science degrees in Naval Architecture, Marine Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Engineering Management.

 

He had a distinguished military career which culminated in his service as the Coast Guard's 20th Commandant (1994-1998). Before that, his assignments included Coast Guard Chief of Staff and Commander of the Thirteenth and Seventh Districts. He served concurrently as the Regional Drug Interdiction Coordinator and principal of a migration task force as commander of the Seventh District. Other major commands included Governors Island, New York the then-largest base in the Coast Guard, and the Coast Guard Cutter 378 Midgett, in San Francisco.

 

After retiring from the Coast Guard, Adm. Kramek joined the American Bureau of Shipping ("ABS") as President, Americas Division (1998-2004), and then became President and COO of ABS (2004-2006). He served on various ABS Boards during and after his retirement from ABS, as well as, among others, for First Command Financial Services, John F. Lehman Co., and Rowan. He was also President of the Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers.

 

Adm. Kramek is survived by his wife, Patricia; and their children, Tracy, Joseph, Suzanne, Nancy; their spouses; and eight grandchildren. Adm. Kramek is also survived by his sister, Virginia McManus; and his brother, William Kramek; and their families.

 

Adm. Kramek will be buried at Arlington National Cemetery. Family members have asked in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Coast Guard Foundation's Admiral Robert E. Kramek Scholarship Fund, by mailing: Coast Guard Foundation, 394 Taugwonk Road, Stonington, CT 06378; or by calling (860) 535-0786.

Fair winds and following seas