Howard Palmer, 96, of Gloucester and formerly of Springdale, Conn., passed away on Tuesday, Aug. 30, 2011.

He was born in Stamford, Conn., and had been a Gloucester resident for eight years. He retired from the U.S. Post Office after 30 years of service. He retired permanently in 1977 after working for several years in the mail department at Clairol, Inc., based in Stamford. During WWII, he served with General Patton’s 3rd Army in the 81st Chemical Mortar Battalion.

Survivors include his wife of 71 years, Evelyn Couch Palmer; his sons, Gary Howard Palmer of Norwalk, Conn., and Richard Alan Palmer of Greenwich, Conn., a sister, Helen Acton of Marietta, Ga.; four grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ira O. and Amy Billingham Palmer, brother, Albert, and sister, Edna.

A service will be held in Stamford.

Andrews Funeral Home, Gloucester, is in charge of arrangements.