Ralph Cram

With great sadness, we announce that Ralph N. Cram passed away on Monday, May 19th, 2025, at the age of 63. Born in Albion, Michigan, on April 2, 1962, to Ralph A. and Mary E. Cram.

Ralph was a genuinely decent man. Many admired him for his integrity, vision, and creativity. He was the beloved husband of Carolyn G. Cram, the loving father of John and Rachel, the cherished brother of Virginia and Katherine, and the fun uncle to Margaux, Kelley, Stephen, Tyler, Alexandra, Lucas, Walter R., Shawn, and John.

Ralph was an exceptional learner and visionary who strove for excellence in every aspect of his life. He was raised in Albion, Michigan, and graduated from high school at The Leelanau School in Glen Arbor. He graduated from Kalamazoo College and received a master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He held the designations of Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and Counselor of Real Estate (CRE).

As an entrepreneur, he signed his first deal selling Tommy Hearns “Motor City Cobra” t-shirts in Traverse City at 19. Ralph was integral to starting multiple businesses, including TheatrePlex, Envoy Net Lease Partners, and the Mediterranean Hotel Group. He enjoyed speaking at conferences, sharing his knowledge, including at a CRE event in Shanghai.

Ralph loved his children and attended most, if not all, of their sporting events, theatrical performances, and graduations. He had a fondness for celebrating birthdays and special events. He valued travelling and exploring new places with family and friends. He appreciated windsurfing, sailing, and being out on the water.

Ralph was an avid reader, beginning with comic books as a youth. He had a proclivity for reading history, biographies, travel, business, leadership, and personal development books. He also listened to a wide range of podcasts.

Ralph was truly a good man. Trustworthy, faithful, and hopeful. He has a personal relationship with Jesus, attended Bible studies, and served at church. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 describes how Ralph loved:  Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

He will be greatly missed by those who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Albion District Library. 501 W Superior St, Albion, MI 49224.  (517) 629-3993

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, May 31st at 11 AM at Village Presbyterian – 1300 Shermer Road, Northbrook, Illinois.