Peter J. Palmer

Peter J. Palmer, 84, of Northport, Michigan, passed away on November 12, 2025. He was the son of the late John H. Palmer II and Georgia (nee Gettins) Palmer.
Peter is survived by his beloved wife, Diane (nee Downey) Palmer. He is also survived by his cherished children and their spouses, John H. (Leslie) Palmer, Todd R. (Sheryl) Palmer, Paige L. (John) Hanley, and Leigh L. (Matt) Herbster. Additionally, he is survived by his sister, Chris Palmer, and nine wonderful grandchildren.
Peter was preceded in death by his sister, Patty Howard, and grandchild, Payton Hanley.
Pete grew up in Birmingham, Michigan, and went to Birmingham High School where he was on the football and swim teams. Pete was an All-American high school swimmer and after high school attended Indiana University where he was on the swim team. Pete transferred to Michigan State University where he earned a BA and subsequent MBA. While working at General Motors Corporation, Pete attended Detroit College of Law, where he earned a JD.
For over 30 years, Pete served as counsel for S.S. Kresge and Kmart Corporation, ending his tenure as Vice President Assistant General Counsel. Pete also served on the Board of Trustees of Detroit College of Law and was instrumental in their merger with Michigan State University. Pete was an avid MSU supporter and fan, as well as a Spartan football and basketball season ticket holder. In their retirement, Pete and Diane spent time between Northport, Michigan, and Bonita Springs, Florida, with their dogs, Willis and Moe where they enjoyed golfing, maintaining his vintage cars and motorcycles and building model boats.
A Memorial Service will take place in honor of Pete at Christ Church Cranbrook, 470 Church Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48304, on Tuesday, November 18, at 11am.
Memorials are appreciated to the Joanne & Ted Lindsay Foundation Autism Outreach Services (OUCARES).