Manuel Palmer was born on September 16, 1922 in Port Arthur, Texas to Jacob and Evelyn Palmer. His family moved to La Grange, Texas and became chicken farmers. He had a very close relationship with his parents and sister, Isabelle. Upon high school graduation, he unrolled at the University of Texas in Austin, because he was always close enough to visit home when he wanted.
Like many others of The Greatest Generation, he left college and enlisted in The United States Navy during World War 2. He was mostly stationed in Italy, and even had a chance to meet the Pope while stationed there. Even being Jewish, he knew the importance of that visit, especially during a period that was a dark time for European Jews. He was committed to his service, and returned to The University of Texas after his service to complete his education. He remained an active member of The Jewish War Veterans in Houston, where he served as President for many years.
After graduation, he married his wife, Elaine, and they moved to Houston where their only child, Steven was born. He always had a close relationship with Steen. After his first retirement, he joined Steven’s business, where he worked for another 26 years.
Love for his family never wavered, and he will be lovingly also remembered by his daughter in law, Donna; his grandchildren Erica and Justin, and Justin’s wife Jen; and his three great grandchildren, Jack, Max, and Sonny.
Manuel was laid to rest at Emanu El Memorial Park with Naval military honors.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18