Obituary of Helen E. Palmer

Potsdam- Mrs. Helen E. Palmer, 91, formerly of St. Regis Falls, passed away Tuesday February 28, 2017 at the Highland Nursing Home in Massena surrounded by the comfort of her family. Arrangements are entrusted to Hammill Funeral Home in St. Regis Falls. Helen was born in St. Regis Falls on June 11, 1925 to the late Wendell and Blanche (Peck) Patraw. She was raised and educated locally graduating from St. Regis Falls High School. On March 10, 1948 Helen married Gerald Palmer at the United Methodist Church Parsonage in St. Regis Falls. They shared a blessed union of 49 years until the time of Gerald's passing on July 20, 1997. Helen was a homemaker; always being present to her family and mindful of her faith. As a past member of Trinity United Methodist Church, Helen was very involved with dinners and events held by the congregation. She took pleasure in gardening, quilting and enjoyed writing poetry. She is survived by 4 children: James Palmer and his companion Dawn Stevens of Wilmington, Timothy Palmer of Potsdam, Pauline and Scott Nelson of Potsdam, and Judith and Glenn Collins of Potsdam; 7 grandchildren: Brian Collins, Christopher (Debra) Collins, Robin (Richard) Snyder, Rebecca Collins, Bianca Palmer, Kyle Clark, and Landon Nelson; 7 great-grandchildren: Rachel, Lauren, Randy, Ryan, Chelsea, Bryce, and Breiann; 2 brothers: Eugene and Barbara Patraw of PA., and Roy and Elaine Patraw of Waddington. Besides her parents and her husband, Helen was predeceased by 2 sisters and a brother: Elois Sanford, Edna Price, and William Patraw. Calling hours will be Friday from 4 to 7pm. Helen's Funeral Service will be celebrated Saturday at 11:00am at the funeral home. Burial will take place at Forest Cemetery in the spring. For those wishing to express an act of kindness, memorial contributions may be made in Helen's honor to: Trinity United Methodist Church or to the St. Regis Falls Rescue Squad. Memories and condolences may be shared with her family at www.hammillfh.com.