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Palmer Freres

1916 - 2005

 

Palmer J. Freres, 89, of Watertown, died December 13, 2005, at Beverly Terrace.

 

Funeral services will be held at the Schmutzler-Vick Funeral Home and Cremation Service with the Rev. Stephen Savides officiating. Burial with military graveside rites by Watertown American Legion Post No. 189 will be in Oak Hill Cemetery.

 

Palmer was born on April 16, 1916, in Watertown, son of John B. and Martha B. (Buessing) Freres. He served in the United States Air Force during World War II in the Philippines, in the 85th Fighter Wing of the 13th Air Force, with the rank of sergeant major.

 

On July 27, 1940, he married the former Florence E. Krause. She preceded him in death on Oct. 14, 1984. He married the former Ann Fredrich on June 29, 1989. She also preceded him in death on Sept. 11, 2000.

 

Palmer had been a salesman for the former Miller Cigar Company and later Tri County Tobacco, a machinist at Waukesha Motor Company, and as desk sergeant of the night shift at the Watertown Police Department. He had been employed at the Watertown Post Office for 29 years, retiring in 1980 as superintendent of postal operations. After retirement, he was a director/treasurer and later secretary/manager of Oak Hill Cemetery, and also served a term as city alderman for the sixth district.

 

Palmer was a member of First Congregational United Church of Christ, where he had served on numerous boards and as treasurer for 25 years.  He was past commander of American Legion Post No. 189, member of Watertown Turners Association and Watertown Water Commission.

 

Survivors include his sons, James (Gloria) Freres of Watertown and Thomas (Ann) Freres of Saybrook, Ill.

 

He was further preceded in death by his parents, three half brothers, Howard Farley, Earl Farley and Fred Frazer; and a half sister, Esther.

 

 

 

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