Josh Palmer

1983 - 2024

Joshua Palmer, a beloved Lodi luminary, proud father, tattoo shop owner, and adventurer, passed away on October 30, 2024, at the age of 41, following complications from a fall. His life was a vibrant testament to passion, creativity, humor, and unwavering love for family, friends, and community.
Josh was born in Ukiah, CA, on February 15th, 1983. Cherished son of Sandra and Gregory Palmer, little brother to Justin Barnes. A few years later, Josh's little sister Cortney Palmer arrived. From as far back as anyone can remember, Josh was a bright and happy guy always on the move. During his formative years he lived a carefree Huckleberry Finn lifestyle spending his days in harmony with the natural world exploring outside in the sun, under starry skies camping, at the river fishing, or advancing rank in cub scouts.
His family relocated to Lodi, CA, where Josh established deep roots in the town during his school-age years at Reese Elementary, Woodbridge Middle, and Lodi High School. He spent much of his teenage years relentlessly exploring all the top skateboarding spots throughout California with close friends, discovering his love for all things motorcycles, and honing in on what would ultimately be a flourishing career in tattooing.
Josh's entry into tattooing took place at Hard Luck Tattoo, in downtown Lodi. He left his mark on masses of Lodi residents until he was offered an opportunity he couldn't refuse to work at the illustrious Aloha Monkey Tattoo in Minneapolis, MN. There he would sharpen his skills and inherit invaluable industry-related wisdom. It wasn't long before he decided to return to his favorite state in the union, California, where he landed at Quarter Horse Tattoo in Stockton. Many in the Valley were ecstatic to have their favorite artist and friend back. Josh finally made the bold leap into shop ownership with Old Vine Tattoo. His shop would go on to be well supported by his local community and host some of the top tattooers from all over the country and globe.
Over his 20+ year career, Josh created deep friendships in the tattoo community worldwide. Beginning as a dedicated student learning from master artists, Josh transformed into a respected peer whose style was admired by artists across continents. His commitment to the craft was defined by an insatiable curiosity and humility-he never stopped learning, constantly evolving his technique and artistic vision.
Josh's passions extended beyond his career. He was also a dedicated practitioner of jiu jitsu where he earned his way to a purple belt. He trained rigorously, alongside his beloved sons, Wesley and Dean. Josh was a force to be reckoned with in class and was equally as loved as he was respected on the mat.
In the fall and winter months Josh would spend most of his free time with his loyal hunting companion, Vern (German shorthair pointer). Fishing and hunting pheasant and waterfowl were also pastimes he enjoyed sharing with his adoring sons and close friends. He was an excellent marksman and an even better duck caller. Josh's knowledge of and respect for wildlife were unmatched.
Come spring and summer you'd be sure to find Josh on two wheels riding one of his many Harleys. He rode as often as possible and kept a heavily marked map of all the roads and highways he'd covered throughout the country. He could build a bike from the ground up, loved giving them beautiful custom paint jobs, planning epic rides with friends, and riding the hell out of them whenever possible.
Above all else Josh took great pride in raising his boys, Wesley and Dean, to be good, loving and kind, to work hard and to be there for each other. He loved them more than anything in this world, and devoted himself to being the father he knew his boys needed. Fatherhood grounded Josh in the best possible ways.
Josh always lit up a room and could have a conversation with just about anyone. He was a pillar of strength and guidance to many and could always be counted on for a good laugh by all. His warm smile, outgoing disposition, and passion for life will be deeply missed by everyone who had the good fortune of knowing him and shall serve as an inspiration for us all in his honor.
Josh leaves behind a loving and expansive family and many close friends. His two remarkable sons, Wesley and Dean of Lodi, will carry on his legacy, alongside his devoted mother Sande Palmer of Lakeport, dear brother Justin Barnes of Kelseyville, sister Cortney Palmer of Upper Lake, and cherished grandmother Shirley Everhart of Redwood Valley. He was preceded in death by his father Gregory Palmer and cherished grandfather Roy Everhart of Lakeport.
Josh's family will be hosting a Celebration of his Life Sunday, January 19, 2025 at Hutchins Street Square, Kirst Hall, from 6:00-9:00pm