Larry Herbert Palmer

Larry Herbert Palmer, 83, of San Diego, California, passed away on April 5, 2026, after a courageous battle with ALS.

Larry was born on August 9, 1942, in Westfield, MA, and was raised in Granby, CT. He was the son of Wilson and Elizabeth ("Betty") Palmer (née Slye). He was predeceased by his parents, his sister Margaret Colavecchio, his brother Norman Palmer, and his former wife Donna Hayes, the mother of his sons Donald and Gregory.

Larry is survived by his three sons: Donald Palmer and his wife Jeanne of Manchester, CT; Gregory Palmer also of Manchester, along with his son Garrett Palmer and Garrett's wife Jennifer; and Jonathan Palmer and his wife Kelly of Waltham, MA, along with their children Hunter and Alexandra. He is also survived by his former wife Janice Scanlon, the mother of his son Jonathan.

He is further survived by his nieces and nephews, Daniel and Karen Colavecchio, children of Margaret, and Gina Lindsley and David Palmer, children of Norman.

Larry built a successful career as a salesman and later as a recruiter, where his natural ability to connect with people and engage in meaningful conversation served him well. He had a gift for storytelling and was known for his easygoing nature and genuine interest in others.

He loved his family deeply and took great pride in sharing his life in San Diego with them. Some of his happiest moments were spent showing family around the city—visiting SeaWorld to see the killer whale show, exploring the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park, and taking in sunsets along Pacific Beach and in La Jolla.

Larry was also an active member of Reformation Lutheran Church and Shepherd of the Hills for many years, where he found community and connection.

Larry was an avid fan of top fuel dragster racing and attended many events in Pomona over the years, a passion that brought him great excitement and enjoyment.

In his later years, Larry faced ALS with strength and independence, remaining true to himself throughout.

He will be remembered for his warmth, his stories, and the connections he made with those around him. He will be deeply missed by his family and all who knew him.