James Palmer passed away peacefully surrounded by family on February 12, 2025 at the age of 99.

Beloved husband of the late Wanda. Dear father of the late Mark and Matthew (Beth). Proud grandfather of James, Rosie, and Matthew (Kerri). Great-grandfather of Mark, Justin, Caden, Lily, and Violet. He is also survived by several other loving relatives.

James proudly served in the U.S. Navy in World War II. He served as a guard on ammunition supply ships around the world. His driving force in life was his family and running the family business: a restaurant supply company that was established by his grandfather in 1917.

James was born in Detroit and grew up during the Great Depression. He was very active as a young man; in his teens, he was a pro wrestler who went by the moniker "Gentleman Jim". He and his friend swam the Detroit River to Canada more than once, then had to hitchhike back home across the bridge. He was once recruited by the Detroit Tigers to play baseball for the Mudhens which Jim had to decline in order to take care of his family. He enjoyed doing crosswords, playing horseshoes, and bowling.

Visitation will be held at the Dearborn Location of Howe-Peterson Funeral Home and Cremation Services on Monday, February 17th, 3-8pm. Military Honors will be rendered Monday at 6pm at the funeral home.

Interment will take place at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Livonia on Tuesday, February 18th, at 1:00pm.