Kenneth W. Palmer

Kenneth Wayne Palmer (Ken), 93, passed away peacefully at home on June 25, 2021. His wife, Betty, was by his side. Ken was born in Rockford on March 27, 1928 at the home of his parents, William, Sr. and Ethel Palmer. Ken was a life-long Rockford resident. Although he and Betty traveled the world, Ken always liked coming home. Ken served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War from 1950-1952. He earned a Purple Heart, the Bronze Star and three combat ribbons; his unit took Old Baldy Mountain. Upon his discharge from the Army, Ken met Betty. They were married for 66 years and raised three daughters. Ken worked at Roper’s, Barber-Colman and Reed Chatwood. He enjoyed volunteering at Holy Family and at OSF St. Anthony driving the visitor’s shuttle. Ken was very easy going and had a great sense of humor. He was always willing to help anyone, had a kind word for everyone and always said thank you for any kindness shown him. Ken was active throughout his life. Dancing with Betty, attending activities with his daughters, cheering at his grandchildren's soccer games and taking care of his home. His greatest joy was his family. He was a fabulous husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.

Ken now watches over his wife, Betty; daughters, Jean (Lynn) Tryggestad, Jodi Palmer, and Joan Palmer; grandchildren, Eric (Colleen) Tryggestad, Kristen (Nate) Carden, and Ken Tryggestad; great-grandchildren, Thomas, Logan and Erica Tryggestad and Max Carden. Ken rejoins his parents, his brother Bill, Jr. and his family dogs Teddy and Sugar.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 1, 2021 at Holy Family Catholic Church, 4401 Highcrest Rd. Visitation from 5-7 p.m. on Wednesday at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Rd. Visitation also on Thursday at the church from 10:00 a.m. until time of the Mass. Burial at Scandinavian Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the family for a memorial to honor Ken’s memory. Send condolences and share memories at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.