Fredrick Paul Palmer, 71, of Manchester, passed away on Wednesday, September 16, 2026. Born in Hartford, CT on December 8, 1954, he was the son of the late Ralph and Dorothy (Watrous) Palmer.

Fred was a hardworking man with a generous spirit and a deep commitment to giving back to his community. Throughout his life, he worked as a truck driver and was a proud member of Teamsters Local 559 of South Windsor. He also owned and operated several small businesses, including Colchester Cab and The Coffee Stop in Colchester.

Fred dedicated more than 10 years of service as a Fire Police Officer in Colchester, where his willingness to help others made him a valued member of the community. And life lifetime member of the Loyal Order of the Moose. However no role brought Fred more joy than being Santa Claus. He delighted countless children and families throughout Connecticut over the years, most notably appearing as Santa at Family Pizza in Colchester. Fred embraced the spirit of Santa not simply as a role, but as an opportunity to bring happiness, laughter, and cherished memories to others.

Fred will be deeply missed by his companion, Susan O’Reilly; his children, Rachel Angell and her partner Michael Weed, Becky Palmer and her partner John White, Michelle Palmer and her partner Thomas Malena, Fred Palmer and his partner Lori Benoit, Fredrick Palmer III, Sammy Christina and her husband Steven Christina, Jr., and Christopher Sapolis and his wife Theresa; his grandchildren, Chris Jr., Jonathan, Kaleb, Nicole, Isabella, Dylan, Sabrina, Austin, Logan, and Wyatt, Leo, Mikaylla and Jorhden; his great-grandchildren, Leon, Grayson, Avyah, and Jaxson; his siblings, Donald Palmer, Dennis Palmer, Barbara Miller and Pat Schulze; his longtime friend of 50 years Steve Pedemonti and longtime friend of 20 years David Folk; his beloved cat, Stretch; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

In addition to his parents, Fred was predeceased by his grandchild, Kayla-Ann Melena and his son Fredrick Palmer, Jr.; his former wives, Anne Palmer, Barbara-Ann Palmer, and Deborah Palmer; and his siblings, Robert Palmer, James Palmer, David Palmer, Edward Palmer, and Jacqueline Kelly.

Fred leaves behind a legacy of hard work, service, and kindness. He will be remembered especially for the joy he brought to others, whether through his years of service to his community or through the simple magic of showing up as Santa and being a part of countless Christmas memories for families across Connecticut.

A Celebration of Fred’s Life will be announced at a later date in the spring. Burial will be private.