Ishpeming Twp. - Douglas John Palmer, a lifelong Ishpeming resident, passed away at the age of 74 on Thursday, April 7, 2011 at his home with his daughter and brother at his side. He had been under the loving care of his family and UP Home Health and Hospice.

Douglas was born March 8, 1937 in Ishpeming to Floyd & Dorothy (Bond) Palmer. Doug graduated from Ishpeming High School, class of 1956 and served his country in the United States Navy. Doug worked for Cleveland Cliff Mining Company first as an underground miner at the Mather B and retired in 1999 from the Tilden Mine as a pump repairman.

Doug attended the Wesley United Methodist Church where he volunteered much of his time. He restored antique cars, collected antique model cars and model trains. Doug enjoyed traveling, reading mystery novels, and watching westerns and comedies. He loved to stay busy with projects and enjoyed building and remodeling. He was a self taught carpenter, enjoyed Mahjong and loved reminiscing about his time underground, the partners he worked with, and the years he had spent in the Navy. His favorite moments were spending time with family, especially his children, grand children and great grand children.
Doug was a kind and generous man always willing to lend a hand to anyone who was in need. He had a smile that was never ending and a laugh that was contagious. All that knew him loved him. He will be sadly missed by many.

Doug is survived by his son Paul Palmer (Sharon Hold) of Lansing, a daughter Rebekah Rose of Kingsford, a brother Dave Palmer and Carol, 5 sisters Marilyn (Ken) Argall, Marjorie Sanchez, Beverly (Everett) Nelson, Kathy West and Virginia (Rodney) Koivula all of Ishpeming. 3 grandchildren Eric Rose of Tampa, FL, Sarah (Steve) Nichols of Ft. Hood, TX and Brittany Rose Binghamton, NY, 2 great grandchildren Taven and Kaylin Nichols, a good friend Joyce Bertucci, aunt and uncle Wilfred (Betty) Bond of Negaunee and numerous nieces and nephews. Doug was preceded in death by his parents and his wife Elizabeth.

Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m., Thursday, April 14th 2011, at the Wesley United Methodist Church in Ishpeming with Rev. Scott Lindenberg officiating. Interment will take place in the Ishpeming Cemetery.

The family will receive relatives and friends on Thursday at the Wesley United Methodist Church from 1 p.m. until the time of service.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Bay Cliff Health Camp.

Doug's obituary may be viewed at www.bjorkandzhulkie.com where his guest book may be signed.