John Edward Palm

John “Jack” Edward Palm, 97, passed away peacefully on May 16, 2025, in Hoschton, Georgia. Born on September 5, 1927, in Columbus, Ohio, Jack lived a long and vibrant life marked by dedication to family, service to others, and an unwavering work ethic. Jack proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1946 to 1948. He was assigned to the 599th Quarter Master Bakery Company in Korea and was honored with the World War II Victory Medal and the Army of Occupation Medal – Japan. His time in the military reflected his lifelong values of loyalty and perseverance. Following his military service, Jack started his life with Betty in Circleville Ohio and embarked on a distinguished career managing several A&P grocery stores across Ohio for 29 years. Known for his exceptional customer service and deep commitment to his patrons, Jack became a beloved figure in the communities he served. He famously refused to let customers leave empty-handed—if an item was out of stock, he would send an employee to a competitor’s store to procure it. His dedication extended beyond customer satisfaction; he was known to chase down shoplifters with the speed of a former track star—yet always offering them a second chance with compassion and understanding. After retiring from the grocery business, Jack found renewed purpose managing garden centers for Green Circle Growers and Pettiti’s for another two decades. This second career blossomed into a true passion as he immersed himself in horticulture and shared his love of plants with countless customers. Jack’s talents extended far beyond his professional life. A gifted athlete in his youth, he was a champion sprinter and track star in high school. He remained active throughout his life and especially enjoyed boating with family. An accomplished water-skier well into adulthood, Jack delighted loved ones with impressive tricks on the water. He also had a creative side—crafting knives and sheaths with care—and a musical heart that brought joy to generations through piano duets played with children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He was blessed with an amazing ability to make friends and family laugh with his recital of stories, riddles, limericks and nursery rhymes, even late into his life. A man of deep faith, Jack was an active member of St. Stephen's Lutheran Church in Stow, Ohio. His warm personality made him instantly approachable; he never met a stranger and could strike up a conversation with anyone. Although Jack was small in stature, he had a larger-than-life personality and genuine love of life. Jack was a diehard Ohio State fan and deeply enjoyed watching games with Betty, family, and friends. He loved his Osage Street neighbors in Stow Ohio and spent many memorable times with them enjoying a beer and laughs in the backyard. Jack cherished time spent with family above all else. He is survived by his daughter Jackie Oleski (Ray), son Mark Palm (Susie), daughter-in-law Karen Palm (Dean), grandchildren Laurie Stanley-Vojtko (Dave), Hannah Palm, Jonathan Tondreau (Alicia), Christopher Palm, Spencer Tondreau (Holly), great-grandchildren Connor, Rachel, Ryan, Rustin, Lucas, Cecelia, Addison, Scarlett, Brody; and great-great-grandchildren Riley and Harper. He now joins in eternal rest his beloved wife Betty; son Dean; Mom Francis and Dad Amos; sister Virginia; brother Jim and Grandson Brian. Jack’s legacy is one of kindness, resilience, humor, and boundless love for those around him. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him and continue to inspire acts of generosity and joy. Jack and Betty will be interred in the columbarium wall at Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery on September 5th, 2025 and a memorial service for Jack will be held on September 6th 2025, details pending.

John Edward Palm

September 5, 1927 - May 16, 2025