Bernard Wayne Dr. Palmer

Dr. Bernard Wayne Palmer, after a lengthy stay at The Forum at Lincoln Heights in San Antonio, Texas, pierced the veil for his eternal rest and reward on June 23, 2015. His journey here stretched over 80 infectious, productive years. Born April 14, 1935, in a log cabin in rural Mississippi, he was the eldest child of Loris Linton and Eula Belle Palmer. From missionary life in desert Arizona and the Borden Plants of Oklahoma City and Marshall, Texas, Bernard's family saw him fit for a higher calling insisting he pursue a medical degree while working full time and accruing a perfect grade point average at the University of Texas and Galveston Medical School. His identic memory plagued those around him but served him well as he always lifted those around him and left people, places, and things better than he found them. In Irving, Texas, he found his partner for life from Sherman, Texas. Mildred Mae Easterly rejected his gaudy ring and proposal of marriage. He promptly took the proceeds from the ring's refund and purchased a 1954 Black and White Ford Fairlane convertible. Fortunately, fate and Mildred Mae rethought the proposal and happily accepted and wore a Sears and Roebuck budget band forever more. No one is more pleased with this turn of events than children Michael Loris Ray, Patricia Lee, and Pamela Kaye, the tangible fruits of Bernard's and Mildred's devotion. Success flowered with his tours as an officer in the Army crossing the country from Baltimore, Seattle, Denver, New York City, and finally San Antonio, where he entered private practice with Dr. Fletcher Clark. Despite grueling hours, he worked tirelessly beside his wife and devoted time and thoughtful care to their family, friends, and colleagues. Bernard was one of the great mullers. Never at a loss for words or decisions, he mulled the action until satisfied or discovered the perfect solution. From the Bright Shawl, to Indian Princesses and Philmont Scout Ranch, this Eagle Scout always gave his all and instilled fun and intellectual vigor everywhere. He loved skiing, running, flying and cars. He ran several marathons and haunted the Downtown YMCA rather than indulge in lunch. He reveled in computers, cars, fitness, plumbing and never met a challenge he could not fully engage. He gave lectures on all seven continents including a troop of bemused Antarctica penguins. He was a proactive member of the Texas Medical Association. You could always spot someone who had spent time with him as they inevitably sported a smile and a renewed sense of purpose. He is sorely missed and colours everyone's lives that he touched. Bernard was preceded in death by his parents, Loris and Eula Belle Palmer; daughter, Patricia Lee Palmer, M.D. and his sister, Marcia Palmer. Bernard leaves behind his wife, Mildred Mae Easterly Palmer and their 55 years of fun marriage; his son, Michael and spouse, Pamela Palmer; daughter, Pamela Kaye Palmer; grandchildren, Jason Love, Mason Wayne Palmer and Renee Nicole Love; his brother, Walter Palmer and his spouse, Ann; sister, Margaret and her husband, Michael Hotard and, of course, Uncle Pete Palazzolo. To honor the life of Bernard Wayne Palmer, read a book, do a good deed, and be the best you can be. All services to be private at the convenience of the family. Should friends desire, contributions in memory of Bernard Wayne Palmer may be sent to the Dallas Arboretum (www.dallasarboretum.org).