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Steve Palermo
1949 - 2017
Steve Palermo
1949 - 2017
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1949
DIED
2017
Steve Palermo Obituary
Palermo was shot in the back after he intervened in a fracas outside an Italian restaurant in Dallas, where several men were trying to rob two waitresses. The bullet struck his spinal cord, instantly paralyzing him from the waist down. The injury ended his umpiring career.
Although doctors told him and his wife, Debbie, that he wasn't likely to walk again, Palermo didn't take "no" for an answer. The umpire underwent painful rehabilitation at the MidAmerica Rehabilitation Center in Overland Park, Kansas. He eventually recovered sufficiently to walk with the help of a cane and a small leg brace.
Palermo's No. 14 on his American League umpire uniform was retired after the American League and National League umpire staffs were merged in 2000.
Palermo, who was born Oct. 9, 1949, in Worcester, Massachusetts, received the Arthur Ashe Courage Award in 1994. The annual award goes to people who make contributions that "transcend sports."
Palermo also supervised MLB umpires, and he gave motivational speeches.
Word of Palermo's death prompted many current and former MLB personalities to pay tribute to the man. The Kansas City Royals organization tweeted: "Our thoughts and prayers are with our friend and former MLB umpire, Steve Palermo, who passed away at the age of 67 today."
Ozzie Guillen, the former MLB player who coached the Chicago White Sox to the team's World Series championship in 2005, tweeted: "Very saddened by the news that best umpire and even better person has passed away steve palermo. We lost a special one today."
123 Entries
Stephanie Hamil
April 24, 2025
Debbie, you have come into my mind lately and I feel you are grieving after all these years, but hope you have have taken some comfort. I do remember when you shared with me that you were going to be having your first date with Stevie. I´m so sorry for your great loss.
~~ Stephanie (your ride to our workplace at Tenenbaum-Hill from your parents´ house).
Mark A Draine
August 29, 2020
I was at a bar in K.C. in 92 ,shortly after Steve was injured . As he left the bar, I walked alongside him, and wished him well, saying "* know you are going to get better ," A few years later ,Steve was in a radio show in Phoenix and I called in , mentioning the encounter in K.C.. He remembered it, easily ,it seemed ,mentioning specifics ..He was a grateful person and really good dude. I know he rests peacefully in the HHOF- Heaven's Hall of Fame.
HOLLY-Jean Kovar Treadway
July 20, 2018
I followed your professional career and sent a card following the accident. You were a terrific classmate, and athlete. Your contributions to the game you loved were significant. My sympathy to your family.
John Hull
June 22, 2018
Grantland Rice wrote, For when the One Great Scorer comes to mark against your name, He writes not that you won or lost but how you played the Game. Well played, Steve, well played.
How you can show support
Elaine Abdella
June 21, 2018
I often thought about you after high school. You were a great guy! You will always be remembered!
My deepest sympathies to your family! May they always remember the happy times! Sincerely an old friend!
Rest in peace Steve!
Robert Shedd
June 21, 2018
Robert Shedd
June 21, 2018
Scott Hubbard
June 20, 2018
Shocked & saddened at news
of my friend`s passing.Will
never forget our times in St.
Pete & in Memorial Stadium`s
Umpire`s room.Deepest sympathy
goes out to Debbie.R.I.P.
Leonard Ballenger
June 19, 2017
Mr. Palermo was an inspiration to me as an umpire in the game of baseball. He inspired me to be the best that I could be. Thank you.
Hal Lier
June 13, 2017
"Scoop" Palermo- Oxford High School baseball and basketball star. Admired how he took the heat from coaches umpiring Oxford Little baseball at a young age.
June 12, 2017
Debbie, I am so sorry regarding the passing of Steve. I'm not sure if you remember me. I worked @ Dr. Herb Winer's office for many years.I also know you mom. My prayers are with you all. Sincerely, Marilynn Ferina Delaney
Shelly Majuire
May 29, 2017
Debs I love this tribute as you paint the exact picture of the way I am sure we all will remember your Stevie. Smiling with a twinkle in his eyes. He touched people without saying words. I am proud of your strength and determination - you were his angel.
Michael Grimaldi
May 27, 2017
I was saddened, Debbie, to learn of Steve's passing. I'll always be grateful that he embraced Kansas City as home. I learned so much from both of you about dealing with adversity when we worked on the WillReturn Council. Steve changed lives -- including mine -- with his selflessness, patience, wisdom, courage and strength. Especially his patience with my pesky questions about the nuances of baseball rules! May he rest in eternal peace.
Len Kasprzak
May 27, 2017
You will forever be remembered by the boys from Worcester State. You may be gone, but you touched us all.
Betty Berens
May 27, 2017
My daughter was in the hospital in Springfield, Mo after an accident;she was in a coma
I saw the story about Steve getting shot & just wanted you to know how much I admired him struggling to walk & gain his freedom from the walker & canes
While I was in Chapel my prayers were for him & his family as well as for my daughter
ROBERT AN JEAN CARACCIOLO
May 27, 2017
TO THE PALERMO FAMILY OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHY.STEVE WE HAD GREAT TIMES AT FENWAY PARK WITH YOUR FAMILY.GOD BLESS
Paul Sullivan
May 27, 2017
To the Palermo Family,
I was on the basketball team with Steven at Worcester State for a few years and off the court we were friends, as most of us on the teams from 70'-73' were. His energy was contagious and carried the team through some tough victories and some demanding practices. He always had a smile and a positive glow. I know that these qualities, along with his lovely wife and family, help carry him through some of the toughest times a person can faced He was a good man.
I will remember all of you in my prayers during your time of sorrow. Rest easy, Steve
Respectfully,
Paul K Sullivan
Worcester, Ma
Marie, Marion Lombardo
May 26, 2017
Our deepest sympathy to Debbie family. If there ever was
a True Hero, it was Steve. He interceded to. help a stranger
regardless of his own safety. Not only was he a Hero, but
he was a very caring person. We will never forget all the
kindness and generosity he gave to our family in our time
of need. We pray that God will bless him with eternal life
and free of all pain.
May 25, 2017
John, Patrice, Ken and Linda, Dave and I are so sorry for your loss. It is such a painful time when you loose a special family member.
Dave and Monica McCallum
May 25, 2017
There are no words to entirely define Steve's prominence and the genuine partnership both of you made as Husband and Wife. Sending our thoughts and prayers.
Love always, Kathy and Anthony Spalitto
Frank Sue Trotto
May 25, 2017
our condolences John to you and your family
Doug Madaga
May 25, 2017
As a young boy Stevie was one of my "Hometown Heroes". May our memories keep us forever strong. God Bless.
Linda Pytko
May 25, 2017
My deepest sympathy's to the Palermo family. May the good memories of Steve stay with you through the years. He definitely was one of the good guys.
Paul Browning
May 24, 2017
Steve was a Special Person, my prayers go out to him and his Special Family.
God Bless
Paul Browning
Nola Lowther
May 24, 2017
Debbie,
You and Steve were a great strong team. Keep on fighting. It was an inspiration to be acquainted with you.
May 24, 2017
It is with great sadness that we acknowledge the passing of our hero, Mr. Steve Palermo. The Primitivo Garcia 2009 Hero kids are grateful that we had the opportunity to honor Mr. Palermo for his commitment to his community as our 2009 School Hero. In the six months that our students came to know Mr. Palermo he taught them that they were valuable to their families and their communities, and it was true, that "ordinary people were capable of doing extraordinary things." They were being called on to work hard and give back to their community. Mr. Palermo touched our students profoundly and gave them a real-life hero to serve as an example of integrity, compassion, and fun. We lived by and honored his lesson..."Inch By Inch, Life's a Cinch, Never Admit Defeat...Never, Never, Never, Give Up...Never Admit Defeat!"
Pete Story
May 23, 2017
Debbie. We were so saddened to hear of Steve's passing. Great memories of the times we had together.
LeAne joins me in expressing our deepest sympathies and love.
LeAne & Pete Story
Jerry Soltau
May 22, 2017
My condolences to the entire family. Steve was a man of great conviction, and always looked to ensure others were taken care of before him. While his earthly presence will be missed......his spirit lives on. Jerry Soltau
May 22, 2017
My deepest condolences go out to Debbie and the Aaron family, Steve, Diane and Bert. Steve was always very kind to me and my sons, and always made us feel welcome in his presence. I know he will be greatly missed, but his memory will live on with so many who loved him. God bless. Aimee Hilton
Cee Abbey
May 22, 2017
Debbie and family: I was one of many that he touched with his warm smile and generous spirit, as he sought to find a cure for spinal cord injury. In appreciation and with my deepest condolences. Much love, always.
Larry Sinks
May 22, 2017
Steve was one of the greatest me I've ever known. I am grateful that he was my friend. I love you Stevie. Debbie, I am heartbroken for you. God Speed my amazing friend.
Lisa Everhart
May 22, 2017
Blessings and condolences to all of Steve's family and friends. He clearly touched many lives with his wit, charm, and warm and engaging personality. He was also the nicest and sweetest man, always quick with a smile. Thanks for the autographed baseballs and the great baseball stories. You will be missed and remembered by all of who knew you. Rest In Peace, Steve.
Ruth Baum Bigus
May 22, 2017
Debbie & family:
We were so sad to learn of Steve's passing. What an amazing man. My his memory be a blessing to one and all.
Cheire & John Fasbinder
May 21, 2017
Dearest Debbie,
We were so saddened to hear about Steve. We hold you in our thoughts & prayers. Words are difficult to find - know that we are here when there is anything we can do to help. Your parents tell us that you have been inundated with calls & food so we are waiting a while. Love you dear!
May 21, 2017
Adam Abelha
May 21, 2017
I was a young umpire back in the 80s and I wanted to be a MLB Umpire. I so admired Steve Palermo. He was always so kind to me. I met him at Fenway Park after Red Sox games 3 or 4 times. He never rushed the conversation even though friends and family were nearby waiting for him. He gave me great advice. I wrote him too a few times and he wrote back. During our conversations he was so engaging. He always asked how the umpiring was going. He told me how he came from little league umpiring and made it. He told me there is no reason why you can't do it the same way. He always said let me know if there is anything I can do... Then years later he acted with such courage coming to the aid of those 2 ladies. I wasn't surprised. It was always clear to me he was a great man. Today, sadly, he is gone. It is so unfair. Life sometimes has a way of breaking your heart. I hope he has the plate tomorrow in a great baseball game in heaven. I know how badly he wanted to umpire again....I know how badly I wanted to see him umpire again. He was so good. He was the best. May you rest in peace, Steve. Thank You for your kindness to me. Thank You for decency. Thank You for your courage. I will never forget you.
June A Simmons
May 21, 2017
Praying for you and your family. He will truly be missed.
Rich&Cindy Dickason
May 21, 2017
Dearest Debbie...... We are saddened to read of the death of Stevie. He sacrificed so much the evening that he became a hero. What a wonderful, sincere love relationship you had for one another. You alone are to be admired for giving him love and support for so many years. Thank you sincerely for your example of living to the end your marriage vowels. You are sincerely a friend that I cherish and admire deeply. With our Sincere Love and Deepest Ssympathy. .... Rich and Cindy Dickason.
Susan Brosh
May 21, 2017
Debbie, There simply are no words to express my sadness in hearing about Steve. Your lives together have been so full of selflessness, sacrifice and love. My sincere thoughts and prayers go out to your entire family... and I hope that though you are grieving, these hundreds of wonderful messages of love and praise for Steve can give you all some small measure of comfort. May he truly rest in peace.
Donna Woolard
May 21, 2017
We are so very sad for Steve's passing!! Yes he was an amazing umpire for the MLB but his kind heart and passion for others inspired so many!! We were so fortunate to know Steve and Debbie thru our incredible friends Derrick Thomas and Mike Garozzo!! After Steve was injured and began more community service speaking, he took time to share with our Third and Long Kids at summer camp!! He shared his love for baseball and how to find something you are passionate about and go for it!! They were all so inspired that he would take the time for them!
Steve you will be missed by all and know that all you did here will be never be forgotten!! You were a true blessing to the MLB world but many others thru out!! Debbie our hearts and prayers are with you at this time!!
Donna and Jamie Woolard
Derrick Thomas Third and Long Foundation
Felicia and Seymour Weiner
May 21, 2017
Debbie, Diane, Bert and Steve, we can add little to the accolades expressed by so many about the professional side of Stevie's life. Even more so about Stevie the man. But the love and resilience in never giving up by all of you with Stevie is a legacy you leave for all others facing adversity. We send our love.
Bettina OBriem
May 21, 2017
Debbie
I am so very sorry for your loss. Stevie was an amazing man and a wonderful friend to so many.
Prayers for you and your family.
Bettina Battaglia OBrien
Robert Shedd
May 21, 2017
Steve will be greatly missed by all. I am so sorry for your loss, my sympathy, and prayers are with you. I only knew him from High School, and he was always a kind and friendly classmate. I admire the way he lived his life, and what he accomplished was an inspiration to all. I know many many people will remember him fondly.
Frank Costanzo
May 21, 2017
I was so lucky and fortunate to meet Stevie through another gentleman who we lost Michael Lombardo, I was running a restaurant in Scottsdale called Marco Polo and Stevie come in for spring training games anf have dinner and drinks and we'd stay up to the sun come up listening to stories wonderful times making each other laugh and I was given the wonderful job to sleep for a few hours and pick up Steve and take him to the ballpark to be honest it was the last place I wanted to be the way I was feeling but I pick him up but Stevie he was a ray of sunshine full of laughter i'd be sitting with him watching the game or I should say he was watching the game I was trying to stay awake and he looks at me and he goes Frank the nose it's safer for you to be in the bar then here you didn't even see the baseball was right by your head, I literally had no idea what he's talking about and he laughed so hard. Anyways I'm glad I didn't sleep those days and spent the time with Stevie, he always talked about Debbie his lovely though I never met you but I feel like I have. Over the years we've talked here and there about my cubbies one day. LOL was remember those days sitting in a dark an empty restaurant at 3am with one table filled with people all listening to Stevie making us feel that we are in the ballpark with 20,000 people laughing smiling and just being happy I'm going to miss him God bless.
As Stevie would say talk to you later Frankie the Nose !
Cindy Ramsell
May 21, 2017
Got to meet Steve at the Hilton in Oakland circa late 70's . .Steve and Rich Garcia were my two of my Favorites..I will always remember how nice he was and what a Heroic Thing He Did..RIP Steve xoxo love you
Debbie and Mike Bennett
May 21, 2017
We haven't seen you or your family in such a long time, but are so sorry to hear this news! He was such a kind man and inspiration to all and always had a smile on his face! Thoughts, prayers and hugs! Love, Debbie and Mike
"Never Admit Defeat"
Ron Gulick
May 21, 2017
Ron Gulick
May 21, 2017
"Never Admit Defeat"
Ron Gulick
May 21, 2017
Steve Palermo is my hero! Deepest sympathy to those who knew and loved him.. I first met Steve 9 years ago when he called me during my darkest days . Due to an accident, I am paralyzed, Steve called me to tell me he knew my pain and to "Never Admit Defeat"....He checked in with me through the years and reminded me to "Never Admit Defeat". Rest well, my Hero and thank you for touching my life.
Ron Gulick and Service Dog, Meade
Robin Atkins
May 21, 2017
My prayers and thoughts are with Debbie and Stevie's family.
Thomas and Barbara Varhol
May 21, 2017
We will always remember Stevie full of life and how his eyes twinkled when telling a story. Once he started telling a story, his audience was captivated by his words, inflections of his voice, his smile and his huge heart. Stevie, you were a light in this world and now you're a light above. So glad Thomas and I had some time getting to know you.
Greg and Lisa Kurz
May 21, 2017
We were blessed to have known Stevie. He was such a wonderful man. We Love you Debbie and you all are in our prayers. Xoxo, Greg and Lisa Kurz
Kit Koerner
May 21, 2017
The universe lost of wonderful man. My family feels we knew Steve personally from Yankee games we attended. Steve always had a smiling face. He spoke to the crowd before, during and after the games. My son, who is now 40, has always kept Steve as one of his role models. This was formed by the man Steve is on and off the field. As a family we have many fond memories of Steve! We are sorry for your loss and thank you for sharing Steve with so many of us. He touch many people's lives. He will always be a role model and hero to our family.
Ed Newbegin
May 21, 2017
Vaya con Dios, Brother Blue. You were an inspiration to us.
Kenneth Brissette
May 21, 2017
My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family. Your memories will always be with you. God Bless
Betty & Don Rinck Sr.
May 21, 2017
We are great baseball fans and Steve was one of the umpires we could always count on to provide impartiality to every game, yet, was friendly to all the players and coaches, even when reprimanding them of their transgressions.
Our prayers & sympathy go out to Debbie & family for the great loss of our whole community.
Have a good trip Steve, you're missed.
May 21, 2017
Dear Debbie, Bert, Diane and family,
My deepest sympathy for the loss of your wonderful Stevie. Not often is the world blessed with a man who was such an inspiration to so many people. He truly was amazing, as are you Debbie. We have not seen each other for so long but I have never forgotten what the two of you have been through and what an example you have set for others in your situation. You were truly his angel. I will remember all of you in my prayers.
Liz Leone Spack
Sean Moore
May 21, 2017
I cannot think of the right words to say. It was such a blessing to have you and your husband on the unit. You both have affected our lives as much, or more, as we attempted to improve your lives. I will always carry you two in my memory as an illustration of what true e love and sacrifice is in life and marriage. I believe my coworkers will do the same.
May 20, 2017
Debbie,
I am so sorry for your loss. I just ran into your parents Saturday morning and got the update. I knew it wasn't good but they said Steve was In good spirits. I hope you are well my friend. I am here to help anyway I can. Love , laura lovett
Sammy Casalenda
May 20, 2017
Rest in Peace Steve. We met many Years ago through Tim Tschida,AL #4, and have always remembered our chats. A very CLASS act, and always had that bubbly personality. My condolences to Debbie, and the Palermo Family. God has the ULTIMATE Crew Chief. RIP my Friend.
Robin Atkins
May 20, 2017
Thinking of you Debbie with healing prayers.
2014 ALCS Game 4 (Oct 15, 2014)
Cash Moran
May 20, 2017
Many great memories from back in the day when we were both the favorite passengers of US Airway's supervisors Bill (Butch) Robertson and the late Phil Achey.
Our mutual friendship over the years has extended to several others notably Brian Williams and Michael Garozzo.
I will always cherish the times working with you and Deb at "One Step Closer to Home" (Steve Palermo Chapter National Paralysis Foundation) annual event hosted with Bob Costas.
I will miss our casual encounter's at Royal's Games and of course dinners at Garozzo's restaurant.
Steve you are a class act and I can only hope that I live my remaining days with the same strength, courage, and character that you lived with everyday.
Peace my brother,
Cash Moran
913.449.9000
John Teresa & Chris Polito
May 20, 2017
God Bless Steve and his Family , A Great Man ,and one of the best Umpires in Baseball !
The Polito Family
Kris, Pete, Michael & Mia DelloStritto
May 19, 2017
Thinking of you Auntie Debbie. We all are so saddened by the loss of Uncle Steve. I am so grateful I had that time to spend with him before he left us. I will treasure that time and conversations. Thank you for your lifetime commitment to loving and caring for Uncle Steve. Love you Auntie Deb. Forever in our hearts. Love you Uncle Steve. XOXO
May 19, 2017
May the bright light you brought to your wife Debbie, family and friends, continue to sustain and strengthen them daily.
Kathy Bonacorso
May 19, 2017
RIP dear friend. We all had lots of smiles altogether at Fanny's & Checqer days with our friend Victor Jo & now u can have a great golf game w him & all... oh my what a true gentleman you was. May God Bless your family & Deb it gonna be a hard road ahead. Love ya
Joe Spinello
May 19, 2017
We will all miss you and the great times we had. You were a truly "one of a kind".
John Lyons
May 19, 2017
Met you in st. Pete fla. through rich
Garcia! My prayers go out to you and
Your family!
dave blanchard
May 19, 2017
to the palermo family; there are no words to describe how saddened to learn of my long ago friend's passing - from minor league baseball back in the late 50's until we graduated from high school, steve & john were on every team with me and i've always felt a close bond with the entire family. i know my mom always thought that "Scoop" was the best thing since sliced bread, and it showed by the way he lived his life. my sincerest condolences for your/our loss! sincerely - dave blanchard naples, fl
May 19, 2017
My condolences for your loss. May your family find peace and comfort in knowing it has been promised all sickness all pain and death will one day be no more.
Robert D'Elia
May 19, 2017
My condolences o the Palermo family.
Patricia Hanssen
May 18, 2017
Debbie you have our sympathy in the loss of your wonderful Steve. May God bless you and keep you. LeRoy and Pat Hanssen
Carol Ann Esposito
May 17, 2017
Deepest condolences to Steve's family and friends. He was a hero and role model for our youth. Rest in eternal peace.
Wendy Tucker
May 17, 2017
Thoughts and Prayers to Debbie and the Palermo family from The Tuckers(former neighbors on West Street) in Oxford ,Mass
WendyTucker Tucker
May 17, 2017
This is a thought from my Mother:
When we were living in Oxford,Mass in the 1950's, my husband and I took young Steve and our daughter to a Red Sox game. Steve , always the eager fan, brought his glove but didn't catch anything. I remember that our seats were behind home plate. A fitting spot for him!
Ken Donaldson
May 17, 2017
As a former college level umpire, I was deeply saddened by Steve's passing. His untimely loss of many years of work that would have furthered his reputation as one of the few genuinely superb umpires of his time was so tragic. Sleep well, #14. It was a pleasure to watch your work.
Michael Hogg
May 17, 2017
Steve, I have to say that you was one of the reasons why I got into umpiring! I had the honor of meeting you in Chicago in 1991. When I told you that you was humbled and honored and say Thanks for that but you didn't have to say that. Debbie, words can't express how I feel about cancer and I lost my Dad to Lymphoma in 2008, 9 days after his birthday. I hope that I can get the honor to wear number 14 soon. Please accept my deepest and sincerest condolences on Steve's Passing. Please know that God is with you right now during this time.
Jane Dowling
May 17, 2017
God bless you and your loved ones ~ Rest in peace.
Mark Vancellette
May 17, 2017
My condolences to the Palermo Family,i remember Steve (Scoop)saying to me ( bat boy for the Am.Legion team )Markie come here and then explaining what double play depth was.He made me fall in love with the game of Baseball.RIP my freind.
Mark K Vancellette
William Hebert
May 17, 2017
Please accept my condolences on Steve's passing. I remember him as a student at the Joslyn school in Oxford while I was teaching there. His dad was the principal. He was the best at everything, especially as the best umpire in the Major leagues. He was truly a hero. My prayers are with you.
William H.Hebert
Fourth grade Joslyn School 1954
May 17, 2017
I sincerely offer my condolences: May you find comfort with the love and support of family and friends help you to recover from your pain.
mike hallene
May 17, 2017
sorry to hear about steve.he was a good friend and was an inspiration to all. prayers to all of his family.
Andrea
May 16, 2017
To the Palermo Family,my heart goes out to you I am truly sorry for your loss, may the peace that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts during this difficult time.
Bob Ryan
May 16, 2017
We have great memories of the 80's in St. Croix where Steve embraced the cause for raising money in a charity golf tournament and later in Toronto with a reconnect.
Debbie, our prayers for Steve and you are offered. You knew a fine human being in the closest way.
God rest his soul!
Bob Ryan
Scott Hubbard
May 16, 2017
A huge loss for baseball,just as his career ending
heroics.He was one of my favorite instructors at
Umpire School.He always found a way to mix his
humor,with his great knowledge of positioning and
the rules.His ascent to the top was no mystery.He
had everyone`s respect.He was a great role model.
I was close to him for many years.It was a pleasure
to know him.I`ve been in shock,since hearing of his
passing.I was unaware he had cancer.My deepest
sympathy to Debbie and extended family.R.I.P,
Tim Schur (Class of '67)
May 16, 2017
Steve...a.k.a. "SCOOP"...lots of great Oxford High School memories with you and the entire Palermo family.
Jim Brostrom
May 16, 2017
I remember going to a KU basketball game with Steve and Vic Fontana. He was so funny and genuine. In 1985, he knew I couldn't afford world series tickets, so he made sure that I went to the game. He treated people from every walk of life the same. My thoughts and prayers for Debbie and family.
Nancy Stefanik
May 16, 2017
To Debbie Palermo and the Palermo Family --
I first met Steve in 1977. I was 16 year-old baseball fan. Steve had been the main speaker at a couple of sports banquets I attended. (He was living in Connecticut at the time.) He had the ability to keep the audience glued to their seats with his myriad of stories about major league baseball, its history, and all its colorful characters. He also had the ability to put people at ease when speaking to them. At one of these banquets, he asked who my favorite player was. I told him it was Mark Fidrych. He promised me that he would get me an autograph. Well, fast forward a few months later. A package from Florida arrived at my home. Inside was a personally autographed baseball from Mr. Fidrych, and a baseball signed by the entire Detroit Tiger team. I thought that was one of the nicest things anybody could do. (Reading some of the stories in the paper for the past couple of days, I found that this was the "norm" for him.) That's when I became one of Steve's biggest "fans". I'd follow all the box scores to see what games he was doing, and follow his career through the newspapers.
He was the premier umpire of his time, and one hot July night in Dallas, he proved what a premier human being he was.
Rest in Peace, Steve.
My sincere condolences to the entire Palermo family.
Dwaine Johnson
May 16, 2017
My Sincere Condolences to Family and Friends of Mr. Palermo. Steve stepped up to the plate to help the women being robbed, then he himself was robbed of life as we know it. I love the Game of Baseball, and therefore have respect and Admiration for the Umps. They keep the flow of the game going, amid continuous verbiage hurled there way. Heroism and Baseball, sounds like Steve had a good run in life.... R.I.P. Blue.......
Dan Doyle
May 16, 2017
I first met Steve at the Worcester Academy Sports Camp in the early 1960s. He attended with his brothers and the Palermo boys immediately established themselves as great athletes and great guys. When I got to know Steve's late father, Vincent, several years later, it was easy to see how Mr. Palermo's goodwill and character had been passed on to his splendid sons.
I knew Steve before he became famous and then, years later, discovered that his fame had not changed the boy I knew and admired. Not one bit.
My sincere condolences to the Palermo family over the loss of a special person.
Joe Bisogno
May 16, 2017
Steve you were and inspiration to me and a friend.
You will be missed. Your electric smile and our talks will always be remembered.
Prayers to you and your family.
michelle plakas-kaiser
May 16, 2017
rip
Frsnk Green
May 16, 2017
My Thoughts and Prayers are with his WONDERFUL and Loving Family and Friends ,,,May God Bless You and walk with you to Home Plate. RIP Amen
Reed Family
May 16, 2017
Our sincere condolences to family. May knowing others care give you a measure of peace. May the God of all comfort who sees your pain of heart give needed comfort to endure during this most sorrowful time.
Isaiah 35:6
Michael Yvanauskas
May 16, 2017
Rip he was a great influence to many new umpires
Kathi Renison Holt
May 15, 2017
love you Stevie..hugs and blessings to Deb and family :(
Maggie Smith
May 15, 2017
I knew Steve for about 40 years, he was a friend and will be missed very much.
May 15, 2017
My condolences to the family may you endure this difficult time. Phillipians 4:6,7
NC
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Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
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What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
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Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
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The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Steve Palermo's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
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Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
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How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read moreMore ways to support the family
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