George Edwin Palmateer

Longtime area resident George Edwin Palmateer, passed peacefully at his home in Petoskey surrounded by his loving family on July 13, 2020. 

His family will remember and celebrate his life this coming Friday, July 17, 2020 at Petoskey United Methodist Church at 11:00 a.m.; the service will be led by Rev. Dr. James Mitchum.  Interment will take place in the early fall in St. Francis Cemetery.

George was born on February 25, 1921 near Luther, Michigan in Elsworth Township.  His parents were Floyd A. and Elizabeth (Peters) Palmateer.  George was one of six children born to the family and the last to survive.  His siblings included an infant brother, Francis J. Palmateer, and sisters, Virginia Holt, Charlotte Williams, Betty J. Palmateer and Lois A. Palmateer. 

George was a graduate of Luther High School, Class of 1941.  In September of 1942 he enlisted in the United States Army and served with the 51st Station Hospital.  He saw service in the North African, Italian, and Central European theaters of conflict during World War II.  He was honorably discharged in November of 1945.  Shortly following his discharge from active duty, George moved to Petoskey, where he began a decades long career with Little Traverse Hospital.  He worked as a Male Orderly and Nursing Attendant for many years and later as a Supply Technician.  Following his retirement in 1983, he became a member of the Hospital Auxiliary and served the Auxiliary faithfully until 1995.  

George married Adelaide Dufina in June of 1947.  Together they raised two children Noel and Francis, both of whom survive him.  Sadly, Adelaide preceded George in death in February of 1975.  In July of 1978 George married Martha Brubacher, they have been happily married for 42 years. 

His family and close friends will remember a tender and gentle-hearted man, who was a devoted husband, father and grandfather.  Throughout his time on earth he exhibited tremendous empathy for those around him, both in his professional and private life.  His devotion to those he loved knew no bounds and his heart was always open to them.  He was much loved and will be sorely missed.

George is survived by his loving wife Martha and by his daughter, Noel Palmateer, his son, Francis (Diane) Palmateer and by his granddaughters, Renee’ (David) Baker and Aimee (Dee) Saini. He is also survived by numerous beloved nieces and nephews.

Friends wishing to honor him through a charitable contribution are asked to consider Petoskey United Methodist Church or McLaren Hospice.  

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of George Edwin Palmateer, please visit our floral store.