John R. Palmer Sr. JUNE 27, 1925 – JANUARY 17, 2013 Grandville - Traverse City, Michigan

John “Jack” Raymond Palmer DVM, age 87, of Traverse City passed away Thursday, January 17, 2013. He was born June 27, 1925 in Grandville, MI to Linus Carl and Ruth Gwen (Malpass) Palmer.
Jack enlisted in the US Army Air Corps and served his country as a pilot during WWII. After his honorable discharge from the military, Jack attended Michigan Agricultural College (MSU) where he received his doctorate in Veterinary Medicine in 1952. Jack worked as a mixed animal practice veterinarian in Carson City for thirty years. He then went on to work for the USDA as a federal meat inspector for 11 years. In 1981 Jack moved to Traverse City. He enjoyed the outdoors especially horticulture and landscaping. He had many special memories landscaping with his dear friend Florence Tolbert. Jack also enjoyed ballroom dancing with Meg Nutting. In his spare time, Jack enjoyed hunting, fishing, mushrooming, and walking. He was a member of the First Congregational Church, Elks Club, Grand Traverse Conservancy, American Legions, and he was a Master Gardener.

Jack is survived by 2 sons: Richard (Robin) of Carson City and John (Barbara) Jr. of Schoolcraft; 3 daughters: Mary Anne Acosta of Pleasanton, CA, Susan (Duane) Christle of Carson City, and Sara (Dan) Krieghbaum of Ionia; 11 grand children, 5 great grandchildren, and a brother Dr. Richard (Diana) Palmer of Eleva WI.

Besides his parents, Jack was preceded in death by special friends Florence and Meg.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, January 19, 2013 at 2:00 pm at the First Congregational Church in Traverse City with Rev. Dr. Gary Hoag officiating.

Memorial contributions in Jack’s name may be directed to the Grand Traverse Conservancy, 3860 N. Long Lake Rd., Traverse City MI 49684

Arrangements have been entrusted to Covell Funeral Home of Traverse City.