Obituary of John Stephen Palmer

In Loving Memory of John S. Palmer

John Palmer, affectionately known as Jack, passed away on December 5, 2023. Jack was a beloved father, grandfather, brother and partner. Born and raised in New York, He graduated from Penn State University and proudly served his country as a First Lieutenant in the Army, stationed in the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) in Korea.

With a career spanning almost 50 years, Jack made significant contributions as a steel company executive. He managed the Domestic Unfinished Products Division and the International Steel Division in New York City for Bethlehem Steel Corporation. He continued his career with Duferco Steel in their Raw Materials Divison. Given his extensive global experience, he was recognized as an expert in his field. His advice was frequently sought out and he earned immeasurable respect from his clients, professional peers and colleagues.

Jack lived in New York City for over 50 years, where he enjoyed dinners, cocktail hours and cigars with friends. He loved sports, reading, going to the theater and live music events. He enjoyed traveling and saw much of the world, having spent so much time abroad for work. Jack had a great sense of humor and loved to laugh. He never felt his age and often said "age is just a number". Jack's greatest joy came from spending time with family and friends. If you were fortunate to call him your friend, he was your friend for life. He was a loving and devoted husband to his late wife, Brigitte Palmer, a loving father to Kristen Lamb (Greg) and Vail Palmer-White (Rob), a proud grandfather and friend to his grandsons, Trevor Lamb (Katlyn) and Ethan Lamb, and a loving brother to his sister, Susan Broda (Mark). He spent the last 16 years with his devoted partner, Linda Hartunian. Together they loved and enjoyed life to the fullest.

Jack faced life's challenges with grace and resilience. He was preceded in death by his father, Wadsworth Palmer, his mother, Violet Palmer, and his beloved wife, Brigitte Palmer.

In celebration of Jack's life, a memorial service at the New York Athletic Club will be held on February 24th, 2024 to honor the man who touched so many hearts. May his legacy of love, strength, and warmth live on in the memories of all who had the privilege of knowing him. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation in Jack's memory.