Delbert Lee Palmer

QUINCY — Delbert Lee Palmer, 68, of Quincy and formerly of the Mendon/Loraine area, passed away at 6:30 a.m. Tuesday, March 9, 2021, at his home.

A graveside service will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 20, 2021, at Loraine Cemetery in Loraine. The Rev. Marlin Rempfer will officiate. Arrangements for cremation are under the direction of O'Donnell-Cookson Life Celebration Home in Quincy.

Delbert was born Sep. 18, 1952, in Fort Madison, Iowa, to Dean and Delores Ann (Kline) Palmer.

Survivors include his seven siblings, Priscilla Murphy (Dan) of Georgia, Linda Kramer (Dean) of Quincy, Richard Palmer of Loraine, Jimmy Palmer (Donna) of Quincy, John Palmer of Loraine, Dannie Joe Palmer (Amy) of Mendon and Becky Markey (Lance) of Carthage; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Delbert was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, David Palmer; one nephew; and two great-nephews.

Delbert first worked at Curry Funeral Home in Mendon and later went on to work for Bruening Heating and Air Conditioning for 15 years. He also painted planes at Spirit of St. Louis Airport in Chesterfield, Missouri, at one time.

Delbert had an immense love for his family and friends. He was lovingly referred to as the "Can Man" in his neighborhood, because everyone knew him for the cans he collected and recycled all year long. Fishing, hanging out at Windy's Bar in Mendon, going to cookouts, following the Chicago Bulls, and loving his three "kids" — two dogs, Lady and Hershey; and his cat, Boots — were a few of his other favorite things.

Delbert was a member of St. James Lutheran Church.

The family would like to send a special thank you to Delbert's personal assistants, Kelly and Dennis, as well as Dr. Kirkpatrick for their care for Delbert over the years. A special thank-you also to the Blessing Hospice staff. Memorial contributions may be made to the Illinois School for the Deaf or Blessing Hospice.

Online condolences may be shared and a video tribute may be viewed at ODonnellCookson.com.