Bryan Palmer

Bryan was born on August 19, 1947, in Farmville, North Carolina, to Etta Harper Palmer and Warren George Palmer. He lived a life marked by resilience, generosity, curiosity, and quiet strength.

Bryan was the kind of man who would tell you he was “doing pretty good” when asked how he was, even on the hardest of days. That was who he was: steady, humble, and far more concerned with how others were doing than with drawing attention to himself. He had a calm way about him that made people feel grounded, and he met life’s challenges with grit, perspective, and heart.

He was generous almost to a fault, always ready to help, give, build, fix, or show up. If you mentioned something you needed, an Amazon box might appear on your doorstep the next day. He actively looked for things to repair or upgrade, even if they didn't always need it. He believed problems could be solved with a little effort, a little ingenuity, and the willingness to try. In fact, his first instinct was usually to try it without the directions. The directions, the schematics, or the YouTube video came later.

Bryan found joy in life’s simple pleasures and small adventures. He loved driving his Jeep on the beach at South Padre Island with Sherry, sleeping on his boat in Sabula, spending time at the local jazz club or neighborhood bar, and, more recently, simply sitting and watching the birds at the feeders he faithfully kept stocked. He was a dreamer in the best sense of the word, always thinking about the next project, the next trip, or the next idea.

Above all, Bryan loved his family. He was a devoted father to his sons and a loving grandfather who maintained a pool just so his grandkids would have a place to swim and play. He often brought pie and coffee when visiting his grandchildren, along with advice, encouragement, practical help, and perspective. He tried, and he tried hard, for the people he loved. That is how he lived, and that is how he will be remembered.

Bryan is survived by his sons, Robert (Kelly) Palmer and Richard Palmer; his beloved partner, Sherry Swertfager; his grandchildren, Braydon, Cannon, and Kaden; his siblings, Alan Palmer, Conniekay Palmer, and Maura Palmer; and the mother of his children, Pam Palmer.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Etta Harper Palmer and Warren George Palmer; his aunt, Willa Rae Bullouck, who was like a mother to him; and many other loved ones who were dear to him throughout his life.

Bryan will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered for his kindness, his steady presence, his wit, his generosity, and the many ways he made life better for those around him.

Visitation will be held at McLaren's Resthaven Chapel, 801 19th Street, West Des Moines, IA, on April 24, 2026, from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm with a Memorial Service following from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm.