Michael L. Palmer

Michael L. Palmer, age 61, of Cottage Grove, Minnesota, passed unexpectedly due to a heart-related illness, at his home, on June 22, 2025. He discovered this illness by training to run a 5K with his son-in-law, which resulted in chest pain. Mike had two stents placed on May 1, 2025, and was recovering well. He was feeling like himself and was back to working hard like he always had. He had an amazing birthday the week before and shared a wonderful dinner at Jensen’s Supper Club, his favorite, with his great friends, Paul and Sheri McWatters, and the love of his life, Suzy. His last Father's Day wish was to enjoy the day at home with his family, BBQing for them, and spending time together, because that was what meant most to him. He was very sentimental that day, holding back tears, thankful his family was together.

Mike was born in St. Paul and attended St. Bernard's School and graduated in 1982.

Mike enjoyed travelling, his favorite spot being Hyatt Zilara in Cancun, Mexico, where he would enjoy lime daiquiris by day and chocolate martinis by night.

Mike was an employee of Bremer Financial Services for the past 29 years. Bremer was recently bought out by Old National Bank and Mike received the final "Best of Bremer" award this past spring. He was very proud to go out on top with the May 1, 2025 merger.

Mike was a self-proclaimed nerd. There was nothing he could not do, except keep a wedding ring, since he was on his third one, over the course of almost 33 years of marriage. He was our favorite mechanic, IT guy, neighborhood pool boy, electrician, plumber, and more. He was our hero.

Preceded in death by parents, Lorraine and Jerome Palmer; sister, Diana Palmer; father-in-law, Bob Johnson; and sister-in-law, Sis Anderson. Mike is survived by his beloved wife, Suzy; daughters, Sarah (Alex Landmeyer), Megan (Jacob) Tyler, and his favorite son, Austin Palmer; mother-in-law, Terry Johnson "Gma T"; sisters, Jeanne (Mike) Dean, Mary Palmer, Theresa Deutsch, Cece (John) Stafford; brother, Terry (Jeanne) Palmer; and many nieces, nephews, friends, and colleagues.

Visitation 4-7 PM, Tuesday, July 1, 2025 at Kok Funeral Home, 7676 80th St. S., Cottage Grove, MN 55016. Mass of Christian Burial 11 AM with visitation beginning at 10 AM, Wednesday, July 2, 2025 at the Church of St. Rita, 8694 80th St. S., Cottage Grove, MN 55016. Lunch will be served at the Palmer house after mass, 7170 Isleton Ct. S., Cottage Grove, MN 55016. All are welcome.

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