George "Tom" Thomas Palmer Sr.

George Thomas Palmer, Sr., age 85, passed away in Sonoma, California on November 1, 2023. George managed his illness with strength and grace and on his final day, he was at home surrounded by his wife and children.  George was born on July 3, 1938, in Terre Haute, Indiana to Charles William and Marjorie Ellen Palmer.  He graduated from Jefferson Union High School in Daly City and joined the Air Force in 1957. While stationed in Montana he met his wife, Patsy Palmer. They were married for 63 years and had four children. He lived his life on his terms, guided by principles of kindness, love, honestly and integrity. George was a loving husband and dad; he always had a smile or a story to share while being an anchor that kept his family grounded.

George worked in San Francisco for over 40 years for various companies including Grace Line, Marine Terminals Corp and Majestic Insurance. He handled and oversaw high-exposure litigated cases for a contract stevedore and terminal operations company and was well respected and beloved by his employees and coworkers. Upon his retirement he stayed on as a consultant for the underwriting aspects of his role due to his extensive experience and knowledge in the specialize field.

George (Papa) took extreme pride in his family especially his three grandchildren Mikaela, Nicholas and Santina for whom he spent his retirement years playing horsey, flying kites, fishing, building forts, enjoying picnics, playing ball, and watching them grow up. His love for his family was constant and unchanging and he will forever remain in our hearts.

He is preceded in death by parents, Charles William Palmer and Marjorie Ellen Hock; Step-Father Clyde Chaney; Children George Thomas Palmer, Jr and Terry Eugene Palmer.

George is survived by loving wife, Patsy Palmer; Children Timothy Palmer and Tonia Zeiter; Son-in-law Todd Zeiter; Grandchildren Mikaela and Nicholas Zeiter, and Santina Palmer; Brother Ralph (Doug) Chaney; Sister Cathy Keck; nieces and nephews and other beloved friends and relatives.

George was a devoted husband, dad, brother and grandfather whose smile, kind heart and warm personality touched the lives of many. We would like to thank everyone for their kind words, help and care throughout his illness, and support after his passing.

Friends and family are invited to a Memorial Service, Saturday, November 25, 2023, at 11 am at Duggan’s Mission Chapel, 525 West Napa Street, Sonoma.

Private interment, Mountain Cemetery, Sonoma,

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