Marlene Kramer

Marlene Kramer of Apache Junction, AZ died on May 30, 2022 at the age of 90. Marlene Kramer was born on October 17, 1931 in St. Louis, MO. She obtained her BSN from St. Louis University, her MSN from Case Western Reserve University and her PhD from Stanford University. After her graduation from Stanford, Marlene continued her work researching nursing students transition from school to work. In 1974 she published her seminal work “Reality Shock: Why nurses’ Leave Nursing”. While Associate Dean for Undergraduate Studies at the University of California School of Nursing and as the Dean of the University of Connecticut School of Nursing, Marlene continued to pursue her research interest in Newly graduated nurses while educating faculty and students in the research process. She dedicated her career to assisting students, new graduates and experienced nurses to become more effective and satisfied nursing professionals. Marlene was a Fellow in the Academy of Nursing and a nursing “Living Legend”.

Marlene enjoyed a wide variety of outdoor activities from hiking to snow skiing. She loved the Phoenix Suns attending many of their basketball games.

Marlene was preceded in death by her parents and two sisters. She is survived by three nieces, three nephews and the many professional nurses she educated and mentored throughout her life. In lieu of flowers, please send a contribution to the American Cancer Society.