Martin Francis Palmer Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Martin Francis "Marty" Palmer, 65, of Fife Lake, passed away Saturday, November 18, 2017 at his home in the presence of his loving family. Marty was born on Monday, June 16, 1952 to the late Richard and Donna (Wiseley) Palmer in Ann Arbor. Following his graduation from high school and college, Marty served our country as a member of the U. S. Army during the Vietnam War. On Saturday, Oct. 7, 1972, he married the former Lynn O. McDaniel at St. Mary's of the Woods Catholic Church in Kalkaska. Marty was a sales engineer with an automotive parts firm. Following his retirement he became very active with American Legion Post 219 in Fife Lake, where he served as the club manager, was the chaplain and served as an honor guard. He was also a member of the American Legion Riders motorcycle club. With his passion of riding and his continuous vision to honor all veterans, Marty founded the Veterans Appreciation Ride, where riders visit area nursing homes to identify and respect veterans of all ages. He was also a member of the Patriot Guard Riders. Marty loved to work with his hands and enjoyed wood working, golf and brewing his own beer. He will truly be missed by many. His greatest love was for his family. He leaves his wife Lynn; his children, Brandon (Heather) Palmer of Williamsburg, Kara (Tim) Town of Traverse City; his beloved grandchildren, Kylie, Tia and Devin Town; Cameron, Kayla and William Palmer; his siblings, Vicki Skop of Boyne Falls and Jeff (Sharon) Palmer of Traverse City. He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Alleen Popp and his father and mother in law, Thomas "Mac" and Donna McDaniel. Visitation for friends and family will be held Friday, Nov. 24 from 5 until 8 p.m. at Christ the King Catholic Church in Acme. The Mass of Christian Burial will take place at the church Saturday, Nov. 25 at 11 a.m. with The Rev. Fr. Raymond Cotter presiding. Rather than flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the family to be distributed later.

Martin Francis Palmer

June 16, 1952 - November 18, 2017