Geradus J. Paalman

Geradus J. Paalman, (Gerry), 90, of Willimantic and most recently New Britain, passed away peacefully on March 12, 2015 at Connecticut Hospice in Branford, with his family by his side. Gerry was born in Rotterdam, Netherlands, son of the late Gerardus and Johanna Paalman, and the eldest of 12 children. He came to the United States in 1961. He worked for Stop and Shop in Willimantic for 30 years as a meat cutter where he was able to use his formal training skills that he obtained in school in Holland. Gerry was an active member of the Knights of Columbus for many years where he participated in many of their volunteer activities. He was known best for his optimism and love for life, nature and art. Watching World Cup Soccer, especially when the Netherlands played, was something he always looked forward to. Garry was predeceased by his brother Sjef and sister Berna of the Netherlands. He leaves behind three daughters, Karin Paalman of Honolulu, Hawaii, Ellen Fowler and her husband Wayne of Sparta, Wisconsin, and Joanne Addamo and her husband Paul of Berlin, Connecticut and three grandchildren, Nicholas, Sebastian and Sydney Addamo, as well as his former wife, Eleanor Paalman. Garry also leaves behind his brothers, sisters, many nieces & nephews in the Netherlands and a sister in Australia. The family would like to thank the wonderful, attentive staff of Arbor Rose in New Britain and The Connecticut Hospice for their kindness, concern and quality of care. Calling hours will be on Tuesday, March 17, 2015 at Potter Funeral Home, 456 Jackson Street, Willimantic, from 10:00am to 12:00 pm, with a funeral immediately following at the funeral home. Burial will be at the convenience of the family. For an online memorial guestbook please visit www.potterfuneralhome.com .