Edward Palmer

Edward Palmer, age 75, of Beaver Island, MI, died at his home under the tender care of his family on July 17, 2021. Edward was born on Beaver Island on June 14, 1946 to Clarence and Lorraine (Boyle) Palmer. He spent all of his life living on the island with the exception of his time in the Vietnam war and while sailing on the Ludington car ferries.

From a very young age it was evident that Edward had a natural ability to play music and sing. Over the years, he used his musical gifts to heal, entertain and celebrate many generations of Islanders. And in his later years, he enjoyed playing music for the elderly at assisted living facilities all over Northern Michigan. While he played harmonica and guitar beautifully, he mastered at the piano.

Edward enjoyed Beaver Island history and genealogy. He also loved to travel and to meet new people. He was everyone’s friend. He enjoyed making others happy through everyday small gestures of kindness. But his biggest love was for his family.

Edward is survived by his wife of 44 years, Mary Palmer; their children Tara (Charles) Palmer-Pop, Cory Palmer, Hilary Palmer and Rita (Jeffrey) Palmer-Stewart; grandchildren Mary Outrequin-Palmer, Charley Pop, Elizabeth Pop and Ava Palmer-Bousquet; siblings Evelyn (Thomas) Oleksy and Roberta Palmer. He also had many nieces and nephews that he thought the world of, and likewise.

Edward was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence Palmer and Lorraine (Boyle) Palmer; siblings Gracie Palmer, Irene (Palmer) Henize, Robert Palmer, Russell Palmer, Perry Palmer, Mary Anne (Palmer) Ferguson and Virginia Palmer.

Edward's family will accept friends and visitors on September 3, 2021 from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. with a rosary at 6:30 at Holy Cross Catholic Church.  Funeral Mass with take place on September 4, 2021 at 12:00 pm at Holy Cross Catholic Church followed by a short military service at Veteran’s Park. A late luncheon and celebration of life will begin immediately following at Holy Cross Parish Hall where an evening of live music by Edward’s family and old bandmates can be enjoyed.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Beaver Island AMVETS Post 46 or the Ellen Welke Fund.

Arrangements are in the care of the Winchester Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes.  Please sign his online guestbook at www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com