Frederick J. Palermo

In Loving Memory of Frederick “Fred” J. Palermo

August 22, 1935 – October 23, 2025

Frederick “Fred” J. Palermo, 90, of Cumming, Georgia, passed away on Thursday, October 23, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on August 22, 1935, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Fred lived a life defined by loyalty, strength, humor, and an unwavering devotion to those he loved most.

In his younger years, Fred honorably served in the United States Army and bravely fought in the Korean War—an experience that shaped his character and remained a source of pride throughout his life. After returning home, he began a dedicated career working in Customs, where he formed lasting friendships and created countless memories that he cherished deeply. Some of his very best friends were made during these years, including Enola Wolfinger, Jon Dennison, Doullie, George Keller, Wanda, and Bruce Tuten, and the bonds he built through his work remained an important part of his life.

Fred had a zest for life and a presence that was impossible to forget. He enjoyed collecting coins and sports memorabilia, loved fishing in his earlier years, and treasured family vacations and moments spent together. He also had a unique hobby of collecting clown figurines—something his family always found a little creepy, yet they lovingly supported him with new additions to his collection over the years.

Fred also found a love for horse racing, a passion he shared with his cousin Louis. The two could often be found at the racetrack, enjoying the thrill of the sport. At one point, they even brought home a thoroughbred, a decision that sparked several years of breeding and racing his own horses—an adventure filled with excitement, laughter, and stories that he continued to tell throughout the years.

Fred had a deep love for music and especially enjoyed playing the piano. Christmastime was his favorite, and he could always be found seated at the piano, playing festive songs while hanging ornaments on the family tree. He loved to cook family dinners, filling the home with warmth, laughter, and the smell of delicious meals, and it was not uncommon to find him dancing in the kitchen with his family. Fred was funny, quick-witted, and always cracking jokes—he loved to make people laugh, and his humor brought joy to every gathering. Those joyful family moments remain some of the fondest memories shared by those who loved him.

Fred was smart, loving, deeply caring, and incredibly proud of his family. And yes—sometimes stubborn and hot-headed—but in the most endearing way. That fiery spark, paired with his humor and charm, was part of what made Fred so unforgettable and so loved.

Fred is survived by his devoted wife, Nina Palermo; his children: Emy Palermo and her partner Matteo Venturino, Gina Palermo and her partner Brett Sell, Cristina Tataru Dillard, Andrei Tataru and his wife Tasha Tataru, Freddy Palermo and his wife Tracy Palermo, and Karen Alikakos and her husband Drew Alikakos. He was a proud and adoring grandfather to Breeze Tataru and Luca Sell, who brought unparalleled joy and meaning to his life.

Fred is also survived by his beloved sister, Violet, whom he loved deeply. She was a significant and cherished part of his life.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, October 27th, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Ingram Funeral Home & Crematory in Cumming, Georgia. Family and friends are warmly invited to gather, share stories, and honor the remarkable man who touched so many hearts.

Fred’s legacy will live on through the love he gave, the lessons he taught, and the many memories he leaves behind. His family will forever remember his wit, his humor, his strength, and the immense pride he carried for each of them. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

May he rest in eternal peace.