Michael Palmer

It is with deep sadness and profound respect that we announce the passing of Michael Palmer, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, who departed this life peacefully at home on July 15, 2026, at the age of 78. Born on July 13, 1948, in Forest Lake, Minnesota, Mike was a beloved figure whose presence brought warmth and laughter to countless lives.

Mike was the beloved son of the late Lytton Palmer and Betty Heikkla and was also predeceased by his sister, Gloria Verrechio. He leaves behind his devoted wife of 57 years, Colleen, with whom he shared a beautiful life filled with love and happiness since their marriage on December 13, 1969. Together, they built a strong and loving family, including their children Kimberly Berkowitz (David) and Rob Palmer (Lisa), and their treasured grandchildren Madisyn, Sophia, Derek, and Lauren. Mike is also survived by his sister Cheryl Vadnais and brother Richard Palmer, and sister-in-law Claudia Courteau (Bill) who will continue to cherish his memory.

A proud graduate of White Bear High School in 1966, Mike went on to serve our country in the Army National Guards in 1971 with honorable discharge in 1977. He pursued his passion for craftsmanship and graduated from trade school in 1969 and dedicated 34 years of his life as a sheet metal worker for the Sheet Metal Local 10. Mike's career was marked by his exceptional skills and dedication to his craft. Mike was a man of many talents and interests.

As a young man, he was passionate about playing hockey and fishing, and he cherished time spent boating, waterskiing, golfing, and bowling. His enthusiasm for old cars and Corvettes was well-known, as was his love for sprint car racing and the Wild hockey team. A true jack of all trades, Mike could fix or build anything, finding joy in creating, especially when it came to building corn hole boards with his best buddy, Sherm. He loved to work in the wood shop.

His quick wit and great sense of humor endeared him to everyone he met. Known for his kindness and sensitivity, Mike's greatest joy and priority in life was his family. His love for them was boundless, and he took immense pride in his grandchildren, always cheering them on in their sports and celebrating their achievements.

A service to celebrate Mike's life will take place on July 26, 2026, with a visitation at 10:00 a.m. and service at 11:00am at Bradshaw Funeral Home in White Bear Lake, MN.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers at Abbott Northwestern Hospital for their compassionate care and support.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Mike's memory to a charity of your choice.

Mike will be remembered for his unwavering love, his humor, and the countless lives he touched with his kindness. His legacy of love and laughter will forever remain in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him.