Palmer, Frederick
Frederick Thomas Palmer, 78, passed away at his home in Bethlehem on December 25, 2020 after a long illness. The oldest child of the late Frederick J. and Catherine McGuire Palmer, Fred was born on March 22, 1942 and raised in New Haven. He graduated from Notre Dame High School and Quinnipiac College, later completing his master's degree at New York University.
Fred followed his father and grandfather into a career on the railroad, beginning as a clerk in Cedar Hill Freight Yard and later becoming the trainmaster of New London and Danbury. He served in several roles over his 25-year MTA career, Fred always cited his tenure as the first General Superintendent of Grand Central Terminal, overseeing the revitalization of this New York City landmark, as a highlight.
A student of history and active follower of current events, Fred kept himself well-informed and engaged in politics and policy throughout his life. In retirement, he dedicated himself to work as an advocacy volunteer with AARP, engaging lawmakers in Hartford and Washington on issues ranging from strengthening consumer protections in Connecticut's electricity market to ensuring the accountability of investment advisors working with seniors.
Fred is survived by his wife of 50 years, Carol (née Szirbik); their children, Laura Pavlovic (Milan), Gregory (Abigail), and Amanda; and grandsons, George, Alexander, Ryan, and Owen. He also leaves behind his siblings and in-laws, John (Joanne), Katherine Takach, Maureen Condosta (Peter), and George Szirbik (Josephine); and extended family and friends.
No public services are scheduled at this time. Memorial donations may be made to the Bethlehem Ambulance Association or the South Britain Congregational Church. His family is grateful for the care he received at Waterbury and Yale New Haven Hospitals.
Munson Lovetere Funeral Home assisted the family. To leave an online condolence please visit
www.munsonloveterefuneralhome.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The New Haven Register on Jan. 5, 2021.

Memories and Condolences
for Frederick Palmer

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24 Entries

Anne Westerman

Planted Trees

TOM KROLL - MARCO ISLAND, FL

January 5, 2021

JACKIE, KATHY AND MAUREEN AND FAMILY, SORRY TO HEAR OF THE PASSING OF FRED. I KNEW HIM GROWING UP ON PLYMOUTH ST. AND WORKED WITH HIM ON THE RAILROAD. HE WAS ALWAYS TOUGH BUT FAIR. ON ONE OCCASION HE SAVED THE RABBIT AND MY JOBS SHOWING AS I SAID BEING TOUGH BUT FAIR. ALSO SORRY TO YOU BOBBY BROWN.

Meari Avery

January 4, 2021

I knew Fred through AARP, he was great to work with, he will be missed. My condolences to his family.

Tia Murphy

January 4, 2021

Hard to even know the words to use. Fred was a very special soul who enriched and inspired all he encountered. I knew him as an AARPCT volunteer, and came to know more about him as we worked together. He always had a good word, and better story, to share. I feel privileged to have known him and all the better for it. I learned so much from him, mostly how to be in this world. Rest well, and know you were cherished.

Marilyn Diaz

January 2, 2021

My deepest and sincerest condolences to the Palmer family. Fred was a gentle giant who loved to tell stories about trains and his wonderful life experiences. He was a dedicated AARP volunteer who I had the pleasure of serving with. Thanks for sharing him with us. Rest well my friend - you will be missed. Marilyn Diaz, Windsor, CT

Christina Kelly

January 2, 2021

My deepest condolences to Carol, Greg, Laura, and Mandy. May you find comfort in your many memories of the good times together and may his memory be for a blessing.

Joe Zilembo

January 1, 2021

My heartfelt condolences go out to Fred's family and friends. I had the pleasure of working with Fred for many years.
May he Rest In Peace.

Michael Klein

January 1, 2021

My condolences go out to entire Palmer family. I worked with Fred since he became an AARP Volunteer. We worked many many events and sat many times up at the Capitol, telling stories and laughing on what was going on around us. He will be sorely missed. RIP FRED.

Betty Sextius

January 1, 2021

My condolences to the families

Rick Lendroth

January 1, 2021

I was shocked to hear of Fred's passing. I will put him and his family on my prayer list. I only met Fred about 2 years ago and he was an inspiration to me and all of the AARP group. He will be deeply missed. Rest in peace Fred.

Barbara Munck

December 31, 2020

My deepest condolences to Fred's family. His wise presence with AARP and his willingness to share his experiences and his stories was appreciated by all. He was so proud of his grandchildren! May happy memories bring you comfort.

Valerie Ferrebee

December 31, 2020

My sincere condolences to Fred's family. I truly enjoyed working with him while volunteering with AARP. We will miss him very much.

Malinda Polite

December 31, 2020

So sorry to hear of the passing of Fred. He will be missed greatly. We worked together as AARP volunteers. You have my deepest sympathy; my thoughts and prayers are with you. Cherish the memories!

Jim OBrien

December 31, 2020

I was so sad to learn of Fred's passing. He was a wonderful man, proud of his family and committed to them. As an AARP volunteer, he always was knowledgeable and willing to reach out to anyone who might be helpful. So, so sorry for the loss of this exceptional man.

Hugh Murphy

December 31, 2020

I always liked Fred, we shared a company car which I topped off every day, RIP Fred

Iris Rivera-Acosta

December 31, 2020

My condolences to Fred´s family
I met Fred while we were both Volunteers for AARP
Fred was a very extremely special man
who treated everyone he interacted with much respect, kindness & caring
Though our time as AARP
Co-Volunteers was short I will forever remember his dedication and passion to our MISSION I will miss you FRED
May you REST in PEACE FRED
Iris Rivera-Acosta

Julia Santos

December 31, 2020

Sending my deepest Sympathy and Prayers to Fred's family. He was an awesome man to work with in AARP. He had a wealth of Energy and knowledge. May God give all of you comfort. God Bless.

novlette williams

December 31, 2020

My heartfelt sympathy to my colleagues wife and family, that the Lord will grant the strength and peace to you all at this time of loss. Do not be dismayed or disheartened God will comfort, strengthen and keep you all. Novlette (AARP sister)

Elaine Werner

December 31, 2020

With appreciation for Fred´s AARP CT passionate advocacy on behalf of CT´s Older Americans and his convivial nature. With Gratitude & Heartfelt Condolences, Elaine Werner, AARP CT Volunteer Engagement Program Specialist

Retta Vadnais

December 31, 2020

My heartfelt condolences go out to Carol and family. I will miss seeing Fred and our talks about politics, and his championing for the rights of others with AARP. He mostly expressed his pride in and love for family, especially his children and grandchildren. Rest easy Fred.

Mark Gisselbrecht

December 30, 2020

A Gentleman and Railroader. He always treated his co-workers with respect.

Jim Fox

December 30, 2020

My heartfelt condolences go out to Fred's family and friends. I had the pleasure of working with Fred for many years, always a gentleman. Rest In Peace.

Kathy Null

December 30, 2020

It was wonderful working with Fred as AARP CT advocates. Fred was passionate and informed about the issues. He was a man with the biggest of hearts.

Nora Duncan

December 30, 2020

On behalf of AARP CT, I want to extend my condolences. Fred was an important and influential member of the AARP CT Volunteer Advocacy Team. He offered valuable and well thought out positions, he spoke from the heart, and he was quick to lend a hand of support. Fred always referred to his family with pride an affection. He will be missed.

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