Kramer, Joseph

KRAMER, Joseph. Died 1965. Clothing Manufacturer. Born Russia, 10th January, 1890, son of Phillip and Elkah Leah Kramer. Educated in Zager, Russia (now Lithuania). Arrived South Africa 1907 and settled in Germiston, where he resided continuously until he died. Together with the late Morris Kalmek, was one of the founders of the clothing industry in the Transvaal. Partner in African Clothing Manufacturers, (Germiston), 1922-30; partner in Germiston Clothing Manufacturers, 1930-36; Director, S.A. Clothing Industries Ltd., 1935-56. Active in Jewish communal and Zionist work since 1918. Was on the Building Committee of the Germiston Synagogue (completed 1930) and Communal Hall (completed 1952). In 1945 he was appointed Honorary Life Vice-President of the United Hebrew Institutions of Germiston and in 1948 was presented with an illuminated address in recognition of his lifelong services to the community. Has served on committees of many Jewish organisations, and was Hon. Treasurer of Germiston Zionist campaigns from 1924-48 and again in 1952. Foundation member and member of the original Committee of the Reading Country Club (1939). Married Leah Brenner, 1923; one son, three daughters.