Michael Andrew Palmer

The world lost a brilliant mind when Michael Andrew Palmer passed over the veil into eternity Thursday, June 12, 2025. Born in Highland Park, MI, on August 30, 1959, Mike was a true free-thinker, a devoted family man and go-to fixer for his wife, children and grandchildren. He was a hard-working servant of his country, both as a decorated USAF officer and DOD Navy engineer and trainer. He was also a beloved teacher, an associate professor at Northern Arizona University, where he led ROTC cadets when they were awarded best unit in the country, Palo Alto and North Idaho colleges, and was voted most popular and funniest teacher at multiple high school academies where he actually made math fun!

Mike was a world-traveler and took every opportunity to explore his surroundings while stationed in Belgium, the UK, and Russia, and in many different states around the country. He raised his children on a homestead in rural Idaho, enjoying skiing, skating, swimming, farm activities, and making music with family and friends. He eventually settled in the beautiful Puget Sound region of western WA where he was blessed with a rewarding career change and 2 new live-in grandchildren and pups that kept life interesting. And Michael loved music! He played sax, flute, and piano and passed his exceptional ear on to his children.

Michael is survived by his wife of 35 years, Lisa (née Junemann), his kids Lauren Skye Campbell (Jeremiah), Gabriel, Kailey, and stepson Aaron Vyvial (Sarah), grandchildren Kingsley, Flynn, and Charlotte, sister, June Marcial, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard and Genevieve Palmer, his sister Susan, and most recently his beloved brother-in-law, Randall Marcial, who had come to visit in a time of need.

Michael was a principled man with a strong moral character and faith in Jesus Christ until the very end. He will be greatly missed and it will be impossible to fill his shoes but we know he is at peace in a better place and have hope for a joyous reunion in the future. He will be laid to rest with full military honors at Tahoma National Cemetery with a beautiful view of Mt. Rainier that he loved and chose for his final resting place here on earth.