Raymond J. Palmer Jr.

Raymond J. Palmer, Jr., 71, of Crystal Falls, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, December 25, with his wife by his side after a courageous battle with cancer. Ray was born September 8, 1952, in Stambaugh, MI, son of the late Raymond and Sharon (Anderson) Palmer. He graduated from West Iron High School in 1970 and went on to play basketball at Suomi College for a year. Ray then transferred to Northern Michigan University where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Education. Ray married Betty Friestrom on June 27, 1987, at the United Lutheran Church in Crystal Falls. He was employed at the Forest Park School District for over 30 years as a teacher and coach. Ray started out teaching 5th and 6th grade science and eventually took a position teaching physical education. He also coached football and basketball for years and had a positive impact on students and athletes alike. In his retirement, Ray worked at George Young Golf Course and shared many laughs with his friends on the grounds crew. He enjoyed golfing, hunting with the boys at Donnie B’s camp, and traveling, especially winter vacations to Marco Island, FL. Ray loved sports and was an avid Green Bay Packer and NMU Hockey fan. Most of all, he loved attending his grandchildren’s sporting events. He is lovingly survived by his wife, Betty; son, Deryk Palmer (Jen Cafourek) of Kasson, MN; daughter, Nicole (Brad) Harvala of Negaunee, MI; brother, Don (Jane) Palmer of Marquette, MI; sister, Julie (Mark) Tollander of Shoreview, MN; six grandchildren, Kendra, Waylon, Nathan, Alex, Dominic, and Dylan; one great-grandchild, Jaylen, as well as several nieces and nephews, other relatives and friends. In addition to his parents, Ray was preceded in death by a daughter, Kristi Palmer and an infant brother, Gary Lee. Visitation will be held from 9:00 - 11:00 AM on Saturday, December 30 at the United Lutheran Church in Crystal Falls. A Memorial Service will follow at 11:00 AM at the church with Pastor D.J. Rasner officiating. The family would like to extend a very special thank you to Jill Nocerini, Dr. Morel and all of his staff at Marshfield Medical Center Dickinson, as well as Aspirus Hospice, especially nurse Heather. Condolences to the family of Raymond Palmer may be expressed online at www.nashfuneralhome.net The family has trusted the Nash Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Crystal Falls with the arrangements.

Raymond J. Palmer Jr.

September 8, 1952 - December 25, 2023