Myrtle Ora Pallister passed away at St. Mary Mercy Hospital in Livonia on August 30, 2017, after a brief illness at the age of 101. Myrtle was born in Monessen, Pennsylvania, the daughter of Lurty and Annabella ( nee Watt ) Martz on June 28, 1916. Her family later moved to Dearborn where she graduated in one of the first classes from Fordson High School in 1933. Myrtle graduated at the age of 16.
She married Dewey Pallister on October 20, 1941 while he was on a one week leave just prior to the United States entry into World War II. Before her marriage she owned and operated a beauty salon in Detroit. After her husband’s return from service, the family made their home in Livonia, near present day Eckles Road, on a small ten-acre farm. They moved to Plymouth when this property was taken over as part of the construction on I – 96. Myrtle has resided in this same home in Plymouth for the past 44 years.
Myrtle drove a school bus for the Livonia Public Schools. Among her many enjoyments in her life, reading occupied one of the top spots. As her family stated, she “ read more than anyone else”. She also enjoyed shopping, dancing, listening to records, looking at old photos and reminiscing about the “ good old days”. Going out to lunch and dinner with family and friends was also a pleasure to her.
Myrtle’s mind was something to envy - quick and sharp. No problem with remembering birthdays, anniversaries and past experiences. In 1991, after 50 years of marriage, she lost her husband, Dewey. Myrtle was preceded in death by her son, David Pallister and her daughter, Cheryl (Pallister) Hatfield and her siblings Elsie Mae, John Edgar, Betty Jane, Goldie Irene and Dorthy Laura.
She is survived by her son, Craig ( Patricia ) Pallister and grandchildren, Stephen ( Angela ) Pallister, Christopher Pallister, Lynn ( Adam ) Richart, Marc Pallister and Jessica ( Michael ) Katulski. Also surviving are her great-grandchildren, Kristen Pallister and Joseph Ramsey-Miller and daughter-in-law Beverly Pallister.
A Memorial Gathering will be held on Monday, September 4th from 4 pm until 8 pm at the Schrader-Howell Funeral Home, 280 South Main Street, Plymouth where a Memorial Service will be conducted on Tuesday at 11 am with Pastor Drex Morton officiating.