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BORN
1934
DIED
2024
Thomas Palmer Obituary
Tom was born 11/2/34 in Clarkston Michigan. Tom's whole life was airplanes and in 1956 he entered the Air Force to be a pilot. His 20 years of distinguished service in the US Air Force included multiple combat tours to Vietnam and Southeast Asia, for which he was twice awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross. Tom retired from the US Military in 1975 and continued to work with aircraft at TRW as a test pilot. After retiring he continued to fly, piloting for Placer County Sheriff's office, CalFire, Los Medicos Voladores (Flying Doctors) and various charities that needed people moved around. When not flying he was usually in his hanger fixing planes and tinkering with his own.
Tom was also involved in the Lao Hmong Coalition of CA Sacramento. His relationship with and respect for the Hmong he worked with during the "Secret War" as a FAC was very important to him and he often reflected that the time in Laos was the best, most meaningful thing he had ever done.
Tom is survived by his son Glenn Palmer (Dinah), his daughter Suzanne Livingston (Peter), six grandchildren, seven great grandchildren, and a brother Donald Palmer.
As Tom wished, he will be buried in Arlington at a time still to be determined.
If you knew our dad you know he loved a good party. So raise a glass and toast a great guy who loved his country, was always ready to help those in need, happy to share his vast knowledge and experience with airplanes, and probably found a way to fly to the next Place.
Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Palmer
8 Entries
Cliff Heitz
July 5, 2024
Tom was my neighbor and once we found out we were both in Vietnam there was this connection. He was a FAC and I with the infantry and so most of his stories I could relate to. He was a wealth of knowledge and I could listen to his stories for hours. He was a quiet individual, did not brag about his service time and what he had accomplished, but a very proud person of his service. I was so impressed of his 100 missions over the north in an F 4 and his time as a FAC - both very dangerous assignments. I was glad to have known him and what he had done for our country.
Amy Lind
July 1, 2024
I met Tom when he ran for Auburn City Council in 2020! Such a kind man. Hopefully someone framed that ballot with his name! Pretty fun achievement.
- Amy Lind, City Clerk, City of Auburn
Ted Irons, M.D.
June 25, 2024
Tom was a former patient at Auburn VA. A great man: calm, quiet, modest and kind. I was honored to know a Raven!
Lennie Mark
June 24, 2024
I will never forget when he gave me a fake piece of chocolate and thought it was the funniest thing ever. It wasn't it, stayed with me for a lifetime, thanks Uncle Tom. I hope there's beer in heaven, cheers!!
David Albright
June 22, 2024
Adventures With Tim
I met Tom Palmer 22 years ago when her checked me out in Twin Commander N207AC.
That began my friendship with Tom that included over 300 hours for LMV and Placer SO. These missions allowed me time to know this wonderful and generous man who used aviation to serve humanity in remote Mexican destinations. I treasure these memories and have the deepest live and respect for this very special soul.
Mary Grist Art Receptionist
June 22, 2024
So sorry for your loss, Tom was the best story teller. And I loved listening to them all. Such a loving husband and a wonderful friend. "Just a note" I adopted his lovely pup Little Bit. I'm so thankful for him. What a joy he is! Thanks Tom. RIp ... God Bless America
Lorraine Moody
June 20, 2024
So sorry for your loss. Don and I knew Tom from the Raven´s. Don passed away two years ago. We gave Tom a ride to his airplane a couple of times.
Condolences
Lorraine Moody
Roger Daisley
June 20, 2024
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