John R Palmatier

John R. Palmatier, Jr. age 84 of Flint died October 14, 2012 peacefully in McLaren Regional Medical Center, Select Specialty Hospital 50 days after falling in his apartment and suffering a C2 fracture. John was born November 26, 1927, in Flint, Michigan to John R. Palmatier Sr. and Nila P. Palmatier (Dilleree). He enjoyed sharing the many stories of his life growing up on his own from age 14 and of his overseas travels as a United States Merchant Seaman. John's legacy was to leave a bit of Michigan as he knew it, for all his family to enjoy near Newberry, Michigan. John retired to a quiet career in woodworking after 30 years with General Motors as a Security Guard. In addition 10 years as an automobile carrier delivering vehicles to General Motors dealers throughout the Eastern and Midwestern United States, when the interstate highway system was nonexistent. Prior to that John held positions as a machine shop technician, factory line worker, tree trimmer, and road grade operator. He was a true Jack-Of-All-Trades with little fear of tackling any job. His wife Audrey Lois (Lafond) preceded John in death. They were married 60 years as of October 17, 2007. Both were the very proud parents of 5 children, 13 grandchildren, and 13 great grandchildren. Children, John and Dawn, Mark and Margurite, Cheryl, Michelle and Steve, Todd and Bridget. Grandchildren include Kari and Ron, Stacey and Kenny, Amy and Kirk. Nikkole, Melissa and Mike, Scott and Carrie, Erikka and Frank, Zachary and Kristin, Jeffrey, Mathew, Jessie, Sunny, Ashley. Great grandchildren include, Amber, Chelsie, Jalen, Peyton, Cody, Taylor, Kyley, Abigial, Colton, Larissa, Brayden, Braxton, Sawyer and Kallen. Surviving siblings; Shirley A. Young, Nila (Dolly) Spencer, Richard C., Larry R. and Shirley Kelly. In addition to many nieces, nephews and very good friend Toni Cole. A clebration of life wil be held Wednesday at 3:00 PM from Jansen Family Funeral Home - columbiaville, where friends may visit from 1:00 PM till time of service. Pastor Grant Lobb officiating. Memorials in memory of John may be made to the American Cancer Society.