David Lee Palmer

August 5, 1962 -August 9, 2025

David “Dave” Lee Palmer, 63, of Springfield, Missouri, passed away on August 9, 2025, after a short illness, surrounded by love,

Bom August 5, 1962, in Aurora, Illinois, to Richard and Marilyn (Ford) Palmer, Dave grew up in Aurora until his senior year of high school, when the family moved to Montana. He attended Montana State University-Northern, where he earned an associate’s degree in business, then began a career with J.C. Penney in Havre, Montana, later transferring to Springfield, Missouri. Over the years, Dave also worked side by side with his best friend, Chad, in landscaping and most recently at the Bass Pro Shops distribution center.

Dave was married to Judy Curtis for 17 years. Life gave him a second chance at love

when he met Carol, who would become his best friend and forever travel companion. They married on September 15, 2007, and together explored warm, beachy places that brought Dave such joy.

Known for his easy going smile, warm heart, and quick wit, Dave loved manicuring his yard to perfection, capturing the world through the lens of his camera, and relaxing by the ocean. He had a gift for making people feel comfortable and valued, and his presence lit up every room he entered.

Dave was preceded in death by his mother, Marilyn, and his first wife, Judy. He leaves behind his loving wife, Carol; his father, Richard; siblings Jeff, Mike, Tim, Chris, and Amy; and many nieces and nephews who adored their ^“Uncle Dave.”

Dave’s life was filled with hard work, deep love, and countless adventures. He will be remembered for the joy he brought to others, and for the way he embraced life—one perfectly mowed lawn, one great photo, and one ocean sunset at a time. Until we meet again, save us a seat by the water.

Services for David will be at 1:00 pm Friday, August 15, 2025 at Greenlawn Funeral Home East. Interment will follow at Greenlawn Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be from 12:00 to 1:00 pm Friday, August 15, 2025 prior to the service.