Gerald Primmer, Sr.

Gerald R. Primmer, Sr., age 90, of Backus, MN, passed away Monday, July 5, 2010, at the VA Medical Center in St. Cloud where he had been a resident for four years. He was born November 6, 1919, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Gerald served in the US Army during WWII and Korea and was one of the founders of the American Legion Post #368 in Backus, where he was a lifetime member. He was instrumental in the formation of the Backus Independent School District and was the first school board president. Gerald worked at many jobs during his lifetime, including the logging business in northern Minnesota and a lumber company that moved him to Montana where he became a successful realtor. He moved back to Minnesota over 20 years later and became owner of the Buffalo Theatre and later, the Woman Lake Inn in Longville. He also bought and sold antiques and collectibles for many years. Gerald was an interesting man and a man of many interests. He was a watercolor artist and an avid reader with a photographic memory who could amaze you with his knowledge on a wide variety of subjects.

Gerald is survived by son, Gerald Primmer, Jr. (Madeleine) of Robbinsdale; grandchildren: Anne Holm of Pine River, Patty Campion of Loretto, Sarah Primmer of Blaine, Robert Primmer of Fort Mill, SC, Susie Gilbert of Plymouth, Tim Primmer of Crystal, Matt Primmer of Glencoe, Josh Primmer of Minneapolis; brother, Harland Primmer of Spearfish, SD; 20 great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Donna (Bartholomew) Primmer, son Donald Primmer, parents Ray and Ruth (Brody) Primmer, sister Dorothy Newman, and sister-in-law Ellen Primmer.

The family wishes to thank the nurses and staff of the St. Cloud VA for the wonderful care they always gave to Gerald.

Memorials may be sent to the VA or to NAMI of Minnesota.

Services will be 11 AM on Monday, July 12, at Kline Funeral Home, Pine River, with Pastor Jeff Broom officiating. Burial will be in Evergreen Cemetery, Backus. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service.