Ralph L. Palmer

Ralph L. Palmer, 92, a lifelong resident of Midland County, passed away peacefully on March 25, 2026.

He was born in 1933 to Harvey F. and Ida Margaret (McWethy) Palmer. After graduating from Midland High School in 1951, he joined the Dow Chemical Company. Ralph married Nancy L. LaMee in 1955 before being drafted by the U.S. Army in 1956. He spent time in Germany then returned to Midland to continue working for Dow. He continued serving his country part time in the National Guard.

Ralph was an avid sports fan, particularly devoted to the Detroit Tigers. His fondness for sports included coaching little league, bowling, golf, and being a spectator at local softball games. Upon his retirement from Dow after 33 years, running became Ralph’s favorite pastime for the next 20 years, participating in many competitive races.

He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Nancy; their children; Lyle Palmer, Carrie (Marc) Harbron, Mary (Matthew) Hamilton, Shari (Dirk) Swartz, Larry (Doris) Palmer; sister; Janet Vance; 13 grandchildren and several great grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, Ralph was preceded in death by his brother Murray Palmer; sisters, Marilyn (Beryl) Jones, Doris Maxwell and granddaughter, Dawn Lynn MacLean.

Interment will be at Memorial Gardens at a later date.