Longtime Fanwood Resident Turns 100, Town Celebrates

FANWOOD, NJ — In celebration of her 100th birthday, Fanwood Police, Fire, EMS and Public Works paid a noisy visit to resident Marge Palmer at her home on Vinton Circle on Tuesday, Oct. 18.

A caravan of police cars, ambulances and fire engines paraded down the street, lights and sirens blaring, to honor the town’s latest centenarian, according to Public Information Officer Tom Kranz.

Kranz said Palmer was thrilled as she greeted the entourage. Joining her was her daughter Peg, son John, daughter-in-law Donna, neighbors and friends.

Palmer is a longtime resident, since 1955, and has a volunteer history with the town that goes back decades. She volunteered for many years at Muhlenberg Hospital and the Fanwood Library, as well as served as a Cub Scout den mother and Girl Scout Leader.

She served as President of the Fanwood Women’s Club and worked on several charitable projects for FISH, Runnells Hospital and Books for the Blind. She also volunteered at the Scotch Plains Fanwood Service League Thrift Shop for 21 years.

“You’ve made our town a better place to live,” said Fire Chief John Piccola as he shook her hand.

The caravan was organized by Fanwood Purchasing Agent Pat Hoynes and carried out by Lt. Dan Kranz of Fanwood PD, Chief John Piccola of Fanwood FD, Capt. Ian Lewis of Fanwood Rescue and Clint Dicksen of Fanwood DPW.

Check out this video of the celebration below: