Frederick Lawrence Kramer

Frederick Lawrence Kramer, 85, of North Palm Beach, Florida passed away on March 10, 2026. Fred lived a life as vivid and colorful as the art he championed and the characters he embodied. He was a man of boundless creativity, warmth, and sociability.

Born on January 20, 1941, in Passaic, New Jersey, Fred was the second son of the late Harold and Adeline Kramer. He was a graduate of Montclair Kimberly Academy and the University of Pennsylvania. After stints in law school and teaching English, Fred traveled in 1963 to South America, where he immersed himself in a world far beyond the classroom. The experience shaped him profoundly. In 1964, he channeled that spirit into a published collection of poetry, offering the world an early glimpse of the artist within.

Settling in Manhattan, Fred married Delphine McCosker and together they raised three sons, Alexander, Jonathan, and Oliver. New York City proved the perfect stage for a man of Fred's temperament, which drew him naturally to the performing arts, and he found a creative home with the American Mime Theater in New York City. Fred also made his mark in the art world, representing works by various artists including the celebrated American painter, Andrew Wyeth.

Fred combined his interests in art and writing by publishing “The White House Gardens” in 1973. The White House Gardens traces both the history of the most famous gardens in the United States (from the time of John Adams) and gives detailed illustrations on how they are planned and how they appear. First Lady Patricia Nixon states in the preface to the work: "This impressive volume is an artistic treasury ... a comprehensive reference ... a vital document. I invite you to experience the historic traditions which are so much a part of our national heritage."

He lived for many years in the Monadnock region of New Hampshire. There he befriended many in the community and developed new areas of passion from baking to music. In the late 1980s, Fred's love of travel took him to Brazil, where another creative chapter unfolded. Captivated by the country's exuberant culture, he developed his beloved bilingual clown character, "Fredgie", a joyful, larger-than-life figure known for his multi-colored costumes, oversized sunglasses, and ever-present maracas. Fredgie embodied the essence of Fred himself: playful, cross-cultural, and impossible to ignore.

Fred found tremendous joy in his role as “Poppi Fredgie” to his beloved grandchildren. Despite the distance he made every effort to be present to celebrate milestones and special events and embraced travel with them whenever the opportunity arose.

He enjoyed travel and his residence in Old Port Cove, where he served as President of the homeowners’ association. During his tenure Fred was instrumental in planting numerous exotic plants and fruit trees at Old Port Cove, which continues to be enjoyed by all.

Fred was preceded by his parents Harold and Adeline Kramer, and his older brother George. He is survived by his brother, Art; his sons Alex, Jonathan, and Oliver, daughters in law Kate, Chen Wen (Janis) and Sarita, and his grandchildren Morgan, William, Harrison, Mia, Quincy, and Ava.

A Celebration of Life will be held on April 4, 2026, in North Palm Beach, Florida.