IN MEMORY OF CAROL KRAMES

Carol served the community for more than 50 years with compassion, humility, and altruism. In her work as Executive Director of Hamilton Jewish Social Services (later Hamilton Jewish Family Services), she exemplified the value of chesed.  No one in need was ever turned away, and all were accepted lovingly by her.
 
During her time at JSS, she spearheaded the resettlement of the Soviet Jewish community, advocated for Holocaust Survivor supports, implemented social enterprise opportunities for the vulnerable, and so much more. Her work focused on combatting social isolation, dignity, and loving support for all in need.
 
Recognizing need in the community, she and her husband, Lester, founded the Hamilton Kosher Food Bank (affectionately called “Carol’s Cupboard”), which ensured equitable kosher food access to those struggling. To this very day, the Krames’ vision continues, and provides more than 36,000 lbs of food annually.
 
Even after retirement, Carol continued her involvement with HJFS. She was a member of the Food Security Committee, helped us plan our annual fundraiser, and was deeply involved in all of our events.

Our highlight, though, was always when she and Lester would drop by our office. Their smiling faces always brightened our days, and Carol always was able to make us laugh.
 
Carol’s energy and enthusiasm for helping others didn’t stop at HJFS. She was deeply involved in the Adas Israel community, a member of Na’amat, a volunteer for the Hamilton Hebrew Academy, and so many other places. She also was a dear friend to many, a beloved mother, an incredible wife, and a loving bubie.
 
Carol was always deeply humble of her accomplishments. She did everything quietly and with dedication. To her, being kind and caring to others was as natural as breathing. Her wisdom made us all stronger.
 
Carol was a true Woman of Valour. She changed our community for the better, and her legacy at HJFS will endure for years to come. She is an inspiration to us all. Our hearts go out to her family, friends, and everyone who had their lives changed for the better by Carol.

Send a tribute card to the family OR donate to Carol’s Cupboard (Kosher Food Bank)