Ananda Joanne Kramer

It is with deep sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Ananda Kramer on May 25th, 2026, in Carol Stream, Illinois, at the age of 78.

Born Jo Ann Kramer on September 27th 1947, in Chicago, Illinois, Ananda was the daughter of Marguerite and Joseph Kramer. She graduated from Resurrection College Prep High School in Chicago in 1965 and pursued seminary studies for a year. She ultimately graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Anthropology. Her lifelong passion for understanding and helping others eventually led her into early childhood education.

From 1982 to 1995, Ananda taught in the infant and toddler program at Chiaravalle Montessori in Evanston Illinois where she became known for her warmth, patience, and deep care for children and families. She returned to school in 1996 to pursue a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine degree at the National University of Natural Medicine in Portland, Oregon. After earning her ND in 2001, she opened up a private practice in Portland, dedicating herself to holistic healing until 2012. She later continued her work as a wellness counselor in Lombard, Illinois, retiring in 2021.

Ananda was a lifelong learner, spiritual seeker, and follower of Meher Baba. She traveled to his ashram in India many times throughout her adulthood finding her true essence and purpose through her devotion to Him. She was also a loving and dedicated mother who encouraged her three daughters to follow their own paths, live authentically, and never stop in their pursuit of greater health and well being. Her wisdom and guidance not only touched family and friends, but also the many patients whose lives she helped improve through her intuitive, trusted, and extremely knowledgeable work in Naturopathic medicine. Her impact on those around her will never be forgotten.

In accordance with her wishes, Ananda’s ashes will be scattered alongside her husband’s near her sanctuaries in Myrtle Beach and India. Ananda is survived by her brother Peter Kramer (Kathy Gibson); her daughters Dea Martin (Thomas), Aurora McManus (Adam Krakow), and Mira Kida (Greg); and her three grandsons Oren, Onyx, and Aden. She was preceded in death by her parents Marguerite and Joseph Kramer as well as her beloved husband Edward “Tobe” Burnham.

A memorial service celebrating Ananda’s life will be announced at a later date.

Arrangements entrusted to Chicagoland Cremation Options in Schiller Park, Illinois.