A former transportation director and state association head, David Kramer of Johnston, Iowa, died Sunday, April 6, 2025, at age 74.

He was born September 2, 1950, in Hampton, Iowa. After high school, he graduated from Hawkeye Community College with an associate's degree in automotive technology. For 20 years, Kramer ran two service stations in town, later finding his way to the yellow bus. 

He eventually became the transportation director for the Waverly-Shell Rock School District. After moving to Johnston in 1991, he led the transportation team at Johnston Community School District for more than 15 years. 

Kramer then served as executive director of the Iowa Pupil Transportation Association (IPTA) for several years, indulging in his passion for bus driver education and student safety.

A family man, Kramer enjoyed spending time with his wife, two daughters, and their families. When he wasn't tinkering with vehicles, he also found joy in music — singing in church, strumming guitar, or playing in bands.

SBF's editorial advisory board member Max Christensen got to know Kramer well during his time as state transportation director. Christensen remembers Kramer as both a smart guy and a funny guy. "[He] had a really dry sense of humor and always had a good joke or story to tell," he said. "I unfortunately did not get to see him before his passing, but I understand he was still telling stories from his bed only days before."

He was also dedicated to the industry. Even the license plate on his personal vehicle read "BUSBOSS." His implementation of updated membership dues and additional services kept the IPTA afloat.

Visitation will be held April 28, 2025, from 4 to 6:30 p.m. at St. James Lutheran Church in Johnston. The funeral will be held April 29 at 10:30 a.m. at the church and streamed live at www.stjamesjohnston.org.

Donations can be made in his memory to the Des Moines Area Religious Council (DMARC) – Food Pantry Network or to St. James Lutheran Church.

View Kramer's obituary and tributes at the funeral home's website here.