Rod Palmer

Rodney “Rod” Dean Palmer, 81, of Mandan, passed away on November 23, 2025, and is now at peace with the Lord.

Rod was born on August 25, 1944, in Minot, ND, the son of Earl and Mildred (Hettinger) Palmer. He was raised in Glenburn and graduated from Glenburn High School. He later attended Valley City College.

Rod married Jean Bloms on November 14, 1970. To this union they welcomed three boys: Jason, Ryan, and Darren.

Rod worked for the Boeing Company, living in Rapid City, SD; Cheyenne, WY; Minot, ND; and Great Falls, MT. He eventually decided to leave Boeing and pursue farming in Glenburn alongside his dad. After retiring, he and Jean moved to Mandan to be closer to family.

Rod loved all sports, including golfing, basketball, football, and baseball. You could often find him watching the Vikings, the Minnesota Twins, or the Oregon Ducks. He also loved watching his boys play basketball and never missed a game.

He had a deep love for fishing, especially at Parshall Bay with family and friends, where they often camped together. Rod also enjoyed watching things grow—his crops, flowers, and the yard he was so proud of. He didn’t mind “playing in the dirt”; he had a true green thumb.

Because of his years farming, Rod was always interested in the weather. He was the family’s weatherman, and his knowledge was proudly passed down to his boys.

Rod is survived by his wife of 55 years, Jean Palmer of Mandan; children, Jason (Becky) Palmer of Mandan, Ryan Palmer of Fargo, and Darren (Krista) Palmer of Sioux Falls; grandchildren, Brady, Jaelynn (Trae) Bennett, Brenden, Coltan, Jake, and Ashley; brother in-law, Don Stueve; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Earl and Mildred; twin brother, Ronald Palmer; twin siblings, Darrel (Mary Ann) and Marlin (Annette); and sister, Marlene Stueve.

Cremation has occurred, and no formal services will be held.