Kramer Retiring from F&M Bank

A longtime local banker, who has had a big impact on the community, is retiring.

Keith Kramer, Executive Vice President at F&M Bank, is wrapping up a 45-year career in banking on Friday, including 22 years at F&M Bank.

F&M Bank says throughout his distinguished career, Kramer has exemplified steadfast leadership, guided by integrity, vision, and an unwavering commitment to clients, colleagues, and the communities he served. His passion for building lasting relationships and supporting local communities F&M Bank serves has left an enduring impact on the organization and beyond. He played a key role in overseeing the opening of new branches in Anamosa, Lino Lakes, Vadnais Heights, and Monticello – helping expand the bank’s footprint and strengthen its regional presence.

“He’s not just a banker, he’s a friend,” says Bruce Knipper, Kramer’s client since Knipper began farming in 1981. “He’s been with us in good times and bad times. He would come to our home and sit at the kitchen table with us to talk about where we wanted to be in the future and how to expand to start the next generation.”

Kramer’s legacy at F&M Bank is marked not only by professional excellence, but also by a deep commitment to community service and philanthropy. Kramer has been an active and influential community leader. Since 1995, he has helped facilitate blood drives in Hopkinton. In 1999, he was instrumental in founding Maquoketa Valley Dollars for Scholars, serving as President until 2025 and continuing today as Vice President of Donor Relations. His service also includes leadership and involvement with numerous organizations, including the Hopkinton Lions Club, Hopkinton City Council, Hopkinton Ambulance Service, and St. Luke’s Catholic Church. He coached Hopkinton Little League from 1991 to 2005 and served in leadership roles with the Maquoketa Valley Bond Issue, Regional Medical Center’s Governing Board, DCED Board of Directors, Foundation for the Future (Delaware County), Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque, Rebuild Lake Delhi, and as Chapter President of Sleep in Heavenly Peace.

“Quite a journey began the day Keith joined our team. Banking was redefined for F&M,” said Tirzah Wedewer, CFO of F&M Bank. “His leadership, altruism, guidance, and financial expertise have impacted countless clients, team members, and our community— yesterday, today, and far into the future. We will cherish all the memories we have experienced over the past two decades both inside and outside of the office. I cannot thank him enough for being an exceptional mentor and true friend.”

“Keith is the most dedicated and loyal team member I’ve known in my 55 years of banking,” said Mike Dunn, F&M Bank Chairman of the Board. “He is constantly gathering new clientele for F&M, working at all hours, in all venues to simply meet people and gain their trust. He doesn’t ‘sell’- he fulfills needs. Keith is definitely ‘one of a kind’ and will be missed.”

As Kramer transitions into retirement, he looks forward to spending more time with his wife, Sherry, and their family, including sons Nathan (Henry and Abby), Jordan (Kim, Oakley, and Otto), and Luke (Talia). “After my 45 years in the banking industry, I think it’s time to now celebrate the successes I’ve had in my banking career,” Kramer shared. “I am planning to retire as of June 30th to spend more time with my family, travel, master my golf game, and spend summers on Lake Delhi, while dedicating some more time to make a difference in other charitable work. It has been truly such a pleasure to work alongside a wonderful team and amazing clients over the past 22 years. I have loved the opportunity to work with all the locations and make so many wonderful memories.”

F&M Bank says while Kramer’s daily presence will indeed be deeply missed, his leadership, wisdom, and lasting contributions will continue to inspire F&M Bank for years to come.

photos courtesy of F&M Bank