Nicholas James “Nick” Palmetto, 88, of Saratoga Springs, New York, passed away on June 3, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of family, service, entrepreneurship, and community that will endure for generations.

Born and raised in Saratoga Springs, Nick spent nearly his entire life in the city he loved. He graduated from Saratoga Springs High School, and Siena University. After proudly serving in the United States Army from 1961 to 1963, he returned home for a brief stint in New York City, eventually resettling in Saratoga Springs.

One of the greatest blessings of his life began when a young woman from England named Madeline arrived in the United States as a 19-year-old au pair. They met while working together at a local insurance agency, and what followed was 51 years of marriage, building a family and a life together.

Nick was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud and adoring “Poppy.” He is survived by his beloved wife, Madeline Palmetto; his children, Darin Palmetto (and wife Jennifer Girzone Palmetto), Erik Palmetto (and wife Rachel Solmons Palmetto), and Niki Palmetto (and husband Peter Hilton); and his cherished grandchildren, Stella Palmetto, Ryder Palmetto, Harloh Palmetto, Rafaela Hilton, and Isa Hilton. He was predeceased by his parents, Evaldo Palmetto and Lillian Palmetto, and by his sister, Janice DeMaria.

Nick was a successful businessman whose entrepreneurial spirit and tireless work ethic became hallmarks of his life. After taking over the family business from his father, he owned and operated Palmetto Fruit Company, a wholesale produce business, from 1970 to 1994. Following the sale of the business, he turned his talents toward real estate development, restoring and revitalizing numerous buildings throughout Saratoga Springs. He helped preserve much of the city’s character and charm, leaving a lasting imprint on the community he cherished. Among the projects closest to his heart was the restoration of the historic Community Theater on Broadway, a project he undertook with his friend and business partner, Randy Martin.

As an active member of the Lions Club, Elks Club, Principesa Elena Society, Disabled American Veterans, and the American Legion, his generosity through his many philanthropic interests, and his commitment to Saratoga Springs, touched many lives.

Nick was known for his quick wit, sharp mind, meticulous nature, boundless curiosity, and tireless energy. He never seemed to stop moving. He could strike up a conversation with anyone and often did, whether lifelong friend or complete stranger. People were drawn to his sense of humor, his genuine interest in others, and his ability to make everyone feel welcome.

Nick’s interests were as varied as the people he met. He loved traveling, tracing family roots, preserving history, and following motorsports. Whether watching Formula 1 from Monaco or NASCAR from Daytona, he rarely missed a race. Some of Nick’s happiest memories were made in England, where he and Madeline frequently visited her family at their cottage. There, he quickly became part of the local community and could often be found enjoying a pint at the village pub, sharing stories with friends old and new, or lending a hand cleaning and maintaining the local churchyard.

He also cherished his trip to Italy, where he traced his family’s heritage and successfully tracked down and connected with long-lost family. He particularly loved traveling to see his children while living abroad in Spain, Hong Kong, Japan, and Australia, each journey adding to the stories he loved to tell.

He will be profoundly missed and lovingly remembered.

The family would like to thank Saratoga County Hospice, The Hospice Unit at Saint Peters Hospital and all of the staff, and Cherrieann.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Saratoga Springs Lions Club Foundation, PO Box 759, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

Relatives and friends may call from 3:00pm to 7:00pm, Friday, June 12, 2026 at the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY (518-584-5373).

Burial with military honors will be private and at the convenience of the family.