John Kenneth Palmer, 88, of Wyomissing entered eternal rest on Sunday, January 15, 2023, at Reading Hospital-Tower Health. Born in Reading, PA on June 29, 1934, he was a cherished son to the late John H. Palmer and Eva G. (Good) Palmer.
John was a graduate of Reading High School, class of 1952, and of the Wyomissing Polytechnic Institute, class of 1954. He proudly served in the United States Army, active and reserves, from 1957 until his honorable discharge in 1963. Upon returning to civilian life, John began as a salesman for Automotive Service Inc., a petroleum distribution company in Sinking Spring, and rose to be president of the company for 20 years until his semi-retirement in 2010.
Much of the success of his business can be attributed to John’s leadership. This leadership carried over into community service to which he passionately devoted his life. John was active in numerous charitable and civic causes and served as an officer and on the board of directors of Olivet Boys' & Girls' Club, president of the Reading Jaycees, president and other officer positions of the Rotary Club of Reading, and on the Pagoda Skyline Committee. He was a founding member of Fish Pond West, and a lifelong member of St. Mary's Episcopal Church, in Reading, where he served on the vestry.
A gentleman, John wore a suit all his working life and took great pride in looking professional and sharp.
John took great enjoyment in walking his dogs, playing golf at Heidelberg Country Club or The Berkshire Country Club, and playing Gin Rummy with his golf buddies. Above all else, John was a devoted family man and was lovingly called “Gramps” or “Grampy” by his grandchildren and "Uncle Jack" by his nieces and nephews. He will be truly missed by all who knew and loved him.
John's spirit will be carried on by his children Suzanne Palmer, Kathleen Heck, John F. Palmer and his wife LeeAnn. He also leaves behind his grandchildren J.R. Palmer, Scott Palmer, Alyssa Heck, and Tommy Heck; great grandchildren Harrison Heck, Palmer Shields McCready and Kooper Pendergast; and dog Bella, to cherish his memory.
In addition to his parents, John was greeted in heaven by his beloved wife of 63 years, Shirley Anne (Haller) Palmer; his brothers Richard and Edward Palmer and sisters Mary Dickinson and Faye Carroll.
Special Thanks to his caregivers, at home, Columbia Cottage and The Heritage.
A viewing for John will be held Tuesday, January 24, 2023, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Auman's Inc., 390 W. Neversink Rd., Reading, PA 19606. A mass of Christian burial will be held on Wednesday, January 25, 2023, at 10:00 AM at St. Mary's Episcopal Church, Front & W. Windsor St., Reading, PA 19601. Graveside committal will immediately follow at Forest Hills Memorial Park, 390 West Neversink Rd., Reiffton.
Contributions in John's memory may be made to the Olivet Boys’ & Girls’ Club, 1161 Pershing Blvd., Reading, PA 19611.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.aumansinc.com for the Palmer family.
