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William Palmer Obituary
September 5, 1948 - August 5, 2021
Obituaries have next to nothing to do with death and absolutely everything to do with life. If you were fortunate enough to know Bill Palmer, then you know he lived with fierce love and passion for rheumatology, his dear patients, his close friends and his family.
Dr. William R. Palmer passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on August 5, 2021 after a hard-fought battle with cancer. He is survived by his beautiful wife, Leslie and their three children; daughters Lindsey (Marc) Milanowski, Lauren Palmer, and son David (Maggie) Palmer; brother Jim (Kris) Palmer, DDS; his grandchildren Molly, Jane and Chase Milanowski, and Garrett Palmer; his cousin Linda Blue; and his most loyal friend Pete Pornchaisiriarun. He was preceded in death by his loving parents, William F. Palmer and Alberta M. Palmer.
William was born on September 5, 1948, in North Platte, Nebraska to William and Alberta Palmer. He graduated from North Platte High School as valedictorian in 1966, and graduated from the University of Nebraska at Lincoln in 1969. He graduated from medical school at the University of Nebraska in Omaha (AOA) in 1973, and completed his Internal Medicine Residency with Board Certification in 1976 and his Rheumatology Fellowship with Board Certification in 1978 at the Albany (NY) Medical Center, where he met his wife, Leslie.
Dr. Palmer was the first Board Certified Rheumatologist in Omaha, Nebraska in 1978. He has practiced Rheumatology in private practice, most recently at Westroads Rheumatology Associates, for over 43 years. He actively participated with the University of Nebraska Department of Internal Medicine for 25 years in the education of medical residents, Family Practice residents, Nurse Practitioner and Physician Assistant students. He has been a constant advocate and contributor to physician and student education in Rheumatology for over four decades. In 2014, the American College of Rheumatology recognized him as a Master. This is one of the highest honors the College bestows.
Dr. Palmer has been a leader in multiple medical-related societies including the American College of Rheumatology, Metropolitan Omaha Medical Society (Board of Directors), the Nebraska Medical Association (Board of Directors), and the Nebraska Chapter of the Arthritis Foundation. He is also a trustee of the Albert and Bernice Hansen Charitable Foundation which directs funds to rheumatology research, as well as to the betterment of the people in Dundee and Hitchcock County in Nebraska.
Rheumatology was his life's work. He loved his patients and delivered excellent medical care with compassion and kindness. His family will remember him as a strong, honest, hard-working man with a tremendous sense of humor that was driven by goodness and service. He cherished his annual fishing adventures in Canada with his son David, his brother Jim, and his dear friends. He loved his dogs, the Nebraska Cornhuskers, talk radio, crossword puzzles, spending time at the Lake, fishing in the mangroves of Florida, going on cruises with Leslie and family, bragging about Lindsey, Lauren and David's accomplishments, and watching his grandchildren grow up.
Dr. Palmer wanted to thank his patients that trusted him with their care, his rheumatology colleagues that he had the honor to work with, and his staff whom he considered family.
In lieu of flowers, please direct memorials to the Palmer TRIO Fund at Wayne State (www.wsc.edu/donate and add Palmer Trio Fund in the note section) and the Rheumatology Research Foundation (www.rheumresearch.org).
Family requests everyone to wear masks for the VISITATION: Friday, August 13th from 5pm to-7pm at the West Center Chapel; and for the SERVICE: Saturday, August 14th at 11am at Morningstar Lutheran Church, 331 South 85th Street, Omaha. Private Interment.
To view a live broadcast of the Service, please go to www.heafeyheafey.com and click the "View Live Cast" button on the home page.
HEAFEY-HOFFMANN-DWORAK-CUTLER
West Center Chapel, 7805 W. Center Rd.
402-391-3900 | www.heafeyheafey.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for William Palmer
Sponsored by Heafey Hoffmann Dworak Cutler Mortuaries - West Center Chapel.
Mary Van Sloun
April 14, 2023
It is sad to find out that Dr. Palmer has passed. I worked with him in the past and had hoped to connect with him again. Bless you Dr. Palmer and thanks for the wonderful memories from the past.
Melinda Stewart
February 25, 2023
I met Bill in 1973 while studying with his fiance Leslie, to become a Nurse Practioner. He was a cool Resident who encouraged nurses to do "more".
I lost contact with the family in the late 80s and just found this obituary. May he RiP and his family have the strength to live on. Leslie. I miss our friendship and chats. Hopefully this note will re-connect us.
Cassandra J Ulrich
August 9, 2022
I saw Dr. Palmer when he first diagnosed my fibromyalgia I was 16 years old & he found 18 out of the 21 pressure points. He was a wonderful doctor & was looking forward to my up and coming art work.
Linda Belsky-lohr
August 2, 2022
Dr. Palmer was larger than life. I never imagined my life without him. He was my mentor and a dear friend. There isn't a day that goes by that I don't think about him and wish I could have one more conversation with him. His smile and quirky sense of humor would make everyone laugh. I am a better person having known Bill Palmer. I think we can all testify to that. I know he is looking down on us and watching over all of us, especially his family: Leslie, Lindsey, Lauren and David and his beloved grandchildren. Rest in peace, Dr. Palmer. Until we meet again.
Anna Hopkins
January 18, 2022
I called Mayo Clinic in Rochester
Minnesota from Lincoln, NE. I was in continuous excruciating pain and wanted to be seen. They told me there is a man in Omaha who is as good as anyone you would find here. I had no been diagnosed or treated appropriately in Lincoln. He had the pain under control in no time and his spirit certainly contributed to the healing.
Susan Howsden
September 5, 2021
DR. PALMER WAS MY DAUGHTER NIKKI'S DOCTOR FOR A LONG WHILE AND SHE & I BOTH TRUSTED HIM 100% WITH HIS CARE.HE WAS A VERY COMPASSIONATE HUMAN BEING & I, ALTHOUGH I DIDN'T HAVE THE PLEASURE OF MEETING HIM IN PERSON KNEW WHAT TYPE OF PERSON HE WAS THROUGH THE CARE, & 'EYES' OF MY DAUGHTER. WE BOTH ARE VERY THANKFUL TO HAVE HAD DR. PALMER AS NIKKI'S RA DOCTOR. I HEARD ABOUT HIS PASSING TODAY FROM ANOTHER FAMILY MEMBER, LINDA RUSSELL WHO IS MY SISTER-IN-LAW IN A CONVERSATION I HAD WITHIN JUST THIS LAST HOUR. GOD'S , FAMILY'S & FRIENDS CONSOLATION & KNOWING HE IS IN GOD'S LOVING ARMS SURROUND A MAN LIKE DR. PALMER AS HE HAS HAD SUCH A HUGE IMPACT ON COUNTLESS LIVES GOD'S ANGEL NOW & IM SORRY I DID NOT KNOW SOONER . . .GOD'S LOVE & BLESSINGS TO HIS FAMILY
Christine Chatas
August 31, 2021
Leslie and family, I want to offer my condolences. I met Bill and Leslie when on vacation in Mexico. Leslie was at the pool and Bill wanted peace and quiet to read articles in the room. We dragged him out to the beach everyday and had a great time with both. Leslie, he was such a special and loving man that I feel honored to have known. Please know that you and your family are in my heart and prayers. Chris
Lisa Menkel
August 28, 2021
Dr. Palmer will be missed. He has been my Doctor for over 25 years. He wrote a letter of recommendation to help my husband and I adopt our daughter. He always looked forward to me bringing her to my appointments. He called her "red" since birth until my last appointment 6 months ago. He was such a special person and wonderful doctor. He will be missed.
BOB J LARSON
August 19, 2021
Dr. Palmer had a patient he had seen for 35 years when he passed, Julie Gershon. I met Julie 10 years ago and started bringing her down for her appointments 8 years ago. The first couple of times I would go along to the examination room, after that I remained in the waiting room. Bill would tell me what a great woman Julie was and how any man in my position had better treat her right. He cared deeply for his patients, and I felt like he was checking me out, Since then, when ever it was time to see him, He always asked Julie how Mr. Wonderful was and I in return would ask her how Dr. Wonderful was. I thought this might be something Dr. Palmers family may like to know. Bill was the best kind of man that ever walked this Earth. The definition of Doctor. My sympathy to you all.
Michelle Robinson
August 16, 2021
I just learned of Dr. Palmer's passing today and I'm heartbroken. I've been a patient of Dr. Palmer for 40+ years and through those many years he guided me emotionally when things weren't so great. He listened and encouraged me as a battled cancer and knew just what to say to comfort me at my husband's sudden passing. As we were close in age I felt he was more like a brother than my doctor. I actually looked forward to my office visits with him. He was very professional and at the same time warm, caring and always concerned for his patients. He had a great sense of humor and always had a good joke to tell. He was a good man and will be missed by all who knew him.
My condolences to his wife, children and grandchildren. May God's loving presence comfort you.
Ivan Abdouch
August 15, 2021
What a great physician, great teacher & great friend.
Dr. Dave and Karen Colan
August 14, 2021
We are heart broken to learn this news. Bill was our best friend and buddy in high school and medical school. He will be a great loss to the community. RIP Bill until we see each other again. May God grant Leslie and the rest of the family peace during these really hard days..
Debbie Carlson
August 14, 2021
I had the privilege to be under the care of Dr. Palmer and found him to be so compassionate and caring. Always making sure I felt my best. Rest in peace Dr. Palmer - you were truly the best and I will miss that cheerful smile and your sincerity.
Lauren Conway
August 13, 2021
I first came to see you when I was 3 years old. You have taken care of me ever since then. I am now 27 years old. I'm doing great thanks to you. You are a awesome man and I really look up to you. Thanks for everything.
Teri Conway
August 13, 2021
You were a great Doctor to work for. Thanks for some of the best years of my life. I learned so much from you.
Ila Gottschalk
August 12, 2021
I was a patient of Dr. Palmer. I loved his sense of humor and the fact that he was so "real." I always felt like I was going to the best rheumatology doctor and received the best care. I will miss him! My condolences to his family and co-workers.
Robin Nielsen
August 11, 2021
I had the privilege of working prn at Westroads Rheumatology starting in 2016 until the pandemic and other circumstances forced me to back away in March 2020. Always looked forward to and enjoyed being at WRA (even when we were having computer problems!) Many a morning Dr. Palmer would greet me with a "Hey Rockin' Robin"! Those of you in our age group, will know that he was referring to an old song from our era.
Learned when he was whistling, it was an old trick his beloved Mother had taught him.
My post, when I wasn't busy in X-ray, was at a computer station adjacent to Dr. Palmer's office. Honest, you guys, I wasn't eavesdropping, but because of his speaking volume, I was privy often to conversations Dr. had with patients. Touching would be putting it mildly. The care and concern he showed for his patients so warmed my heart. It left me with good feelings by osmosis. I admire Dr. Palmer so much. He truly was a force of nature and embodied the meaning of the words Physician and Healer. The world has been deprived of an amazing spirit. If all of us whose lives he touched in a positive manner, pass some of that positivity on, what a wonderful legacy! He would probably tease me, say I'm a tree hugger or something, because he liked to pretend he was gruff. I think probably deep down he was a big old marshmallow. I will always appreciate being welcomed into the WRA family and I miss everyone.
When I just recently learned of Dr. Palmer's battle with cancer, and then his passing, shock and dismay was my immediate response. How could this be? Too often, the things that happen in this world just do not make sense. They just are. I share in your sadness and disbelief. Please accept
my deepest condolences, and they go out to his family, the WRA family, his friends and his patients. May the wonderful memories and passage of time help to ease your pain.
Maggie McNeil
August 11, 2021
Dr. Palmer, I will both miss the incredible care I received from you as a patient as well as your wonderful sense of humor. For well over 20 years I have received relief and help in dealing with pain. You were the first Dr. In Nebraska I found who was willing to give the trigger point injections I had received in California that improved my mobility and quality of life immensely. Also, I loved hearing you brag about your children. You will be missed.
Tim Moore
August 11, 2021
As a radiologist with a big interest in rheumatology, I frequently worked with Bill. We had many cheerful but productive consultations. He was also one of the smartest guys I have ever known.
Amy Miller
August 11, 2021
Dr. Palmer was my Dr for over 25 years. He was an amazing Dr who I trusted greatly and also considered him a friend. He helped me greatly through my husbands battle with cancer and his passing. My condolences to the family. He was a wonderful man and he will be missed for sure.
Michelle Bottrell
August 10, 2021
I wanted to let you know how highly my dad Raymond thought of Dr. Palmer--he has been seeing him for a long time! He received the best care over the many years which has allowed him to be active through the years. Still doing pretty well at 86yrs! Prayers to you and family and friends during this time. I know my dad will miss him.
Rose Franco
August 9, 2021
Dr Palmer was the one doctor that finally listened to me and gave me hope. He diagnosed my disease and was full of knowledge I will truly miss him. He left an impact on my life and I know the lives of others as well.
Michelle Wolf
August 9, 2021
I am heartbroken to hear dr Palmer lost his battle. I was his patient for 36 years, he was like a 2nd father to me. He always knew best and will be impossible to replace. On my last visit with him he shared pictures of his grandkids! He was so proud! My deepest heartfelt sympathies to his family, staff & fellow patients. May you Rest In Peace Dr Palmer.
Stevie Gass
August 9, 2021
42 years ago I carried my precious 2yr old child crippled with arthritis into Dr Palmer´s office and handed her over to him. He said to me "Mom , I promise I will make sure she will not go to kindergarten in a wheelchair". Little did I know I had met her Guardian Angel. I know he is still watching over her. Heaven just welcomed a Hero
Brian Hamilton
August 9, 2021
So sorry to hear about Bill. He and his brother Jim were in the Delta Tau Delta house with me at UNL. He was vice president of the house in 1968. Great guy, wonderful laugh! Great memories. Our prayers are with the family.
Tena Lemmers
August 9, 2021
Almost 35 years as his patient and I feel like I lost my father! I can't thank him enough for all he's done for me over the years. I truly am heartbroken for his family, staff and patients. He was THE BEST! I'll miss him so much!
Deb Oman
August 9, 2021
I´m sorry for Bill´s passing. My thoughts and prayers are with your family. Out 55th class reunion is this coming weekend. I´m sure we´ll share stories and memories of Bill.
Anita Agarwal
August 9, 2021
I can't believe that Dr. Palmer is no more. I am a former employee of Dr. Palmer worked with him in Clinical Research. I can never forget how he always considered me part of his family and helped at each step. My prayers are with the family.
Tammy Nields
August 9, 2021
As a long-time patient of Dr. Palmer's my heart is saddened. He always talked about his wife, children and grandchildren on our visits. You could tell how much his family and his patients met to him. He will be missed. God Bless all of you, during this difficult time.
Judy everett
August 9, 2021
What a great doctor, I will miss him so much, I was a patient for about 10 years. Rest In Peace dr Palmer!
Wanda Smith
August 9, 2021
I´m so sad to learn of Dr. Palmer´s passing. I worked with him years ago at 42nd & Farnam as a fill-in nurse. I had the privilege of meeting his wife when they invited staff into their home for a Christmas party. Dr. Palmer was a kind man and a great doctor. Prayers for his family.
Stacey Capes
August 9, 2021
Stacey Capes
August 9, 2021
Dr. Palmer,
I remember as a toddler meeting you right out of your fellowship 42 years ago. I grew to know you and love your big heart. I was a two year old facing a lifelong and frightening illness, but somehow I felt peace when I would go to see you.
Over the next 40 years our relationship grew, you became not only my one and only rheumatologist until the end of your career, but you have been my friend, my mentor, my psychologist, and my biggest cheerleader. You have given your all to me, and also every singe one of your patients, family, and staff.
Over the years, you grew to become so much like a father to me. When I was doing well, you were happy. When I had hard days, you were there to route me on. You trusted me and encouraged me when I thought I failed myself. If I made a wrong decision, you never made me feel like a failure, but taught me to continue to persevere. You knew every detail of my life and always listened and encouraged me. If you disagreed with me, you didn´t hold back. You loved me unconditionally as your patient, and I have always had the utmost respect for you...your honesty, integrity, and brilliant mind. You were there for every milestone in my life-good and bad, happy and sad. You were there to hold my hand and help me get me back up when I was down. The advice you have given me throughout my entire life is one of the most precious gifts I have ever received, and it will stay with me forever. You kept me healthy, and I was able to achieve my dreams of becoming an RN because of your dedication and love for your patients and also your career. Since the day I was diagnosed with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis as a toddler, you walked the path with me and most importantly guided my Mom into an unknown territory of having a sick child facing a chronic illness. I owe so much of my life success and happiness to you. You taught how to have perseverance and that it was okay to NOT be okay sometimes...and you always helped me get back up.
I will miss how you always made me laugh from deep down in my gut. I will miss how you never let the lidocaine spray sit long enough before each of the 100s of joint injections you´ve given me...but instead you´d spray everywhere else and tell me to suck it up.
I will miss your hug and peck on my cheek accompanied by a "love ya, doll" when I would leave.
I don´t know what the rest of my journey with this disease will entail, but I know you will be here with me in spirit and help lead my way.
I will miss you so much Dr. Palmer. I can´t wrap my head around the fact that you are gone, but I know you are resting easy and with our Heavenly Father.
I love you Dr. Palmer. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. I already miss you so much.
-Stacey
Stephenie and Jeff Skinner
August 8, 2021
I was shocked to see that Dr. Palmer had passed. Steph has been his patient for several years. We really enjoyed seeing him for her checkups. We had heard he had been sick at her last visit. At that time they expected him to recover and be back before her next appt. We were so looking forward to seeing him again and him being well. Our prayers are with his family, his staff and patients. He will be missed by everyone who knew him!
Caroline Christiansen
August 8, 2021
I was a patient of Dr. Palmer for many, many years. Loved his sense of humor! He always remembered my husband was in the military and always asked me about him. Prayers for your family. Also prayers for his staff who I know will miss him terribly. He will be sorely missed.
Debra Floreani RN
August 8, 2021
Dr William Palmer was instrumental in helping to open the doors to the Friendship Program in Omaha. He saw a need for helping those with mental health. He would volunteer as Medical Director of Friendship Program. He was an amazing person who will truly be missed.
Patty Shefte
August 8, 2021
Leslie and Famiy- I was so sad to learn of Bill´s death. I will keep all of you in my prayers. May wonderful memories replace the grief
Shawnie Davis
August 8, 2021
I am so sad to hear of Dr Palmer´s passing! He was my doctor for 9 years. He will be missed and my prayers to the family. Rest In Peace Dr Palmer!
Shawnie Davis
Dr Richard Belatti
August 8, 2021
Bill was a friend and a wonderful physician. His patients truly loved him. What a sad loss to his family, friends and our medical community. Keeping you all in our prayers.
Denise Kaiser
August 8, 2021
I am so sorry at the loss of Dr. Palmer. He was my Doctor for nine years, and I always felt safe having him as my Doctor. Rest in peace in God's hands.
Pegi Georgeson
August 8, 2021
I am so sad to hear about Dr, Palmer. I´ve been a patient of his for years and really appreciated his care, sense of humor and political knowledge. May Light Perpetual Shine Upon Him
Kathie Binstock
August 8, 2021
I am so very sorry to hear of Dr Palmer passing. He was a wonderful doctor and I will always be grateful to have known him!!! Blessings to All the family!!!
Geri Rudloff
August 8, 2021
My deepest sympathy to the family. I have been a patient for 37 years. I told him once we were both young when I started to see him. I will truly miss him as a friend and a Doctor. He was a great as both. prayers to the family.
Debra Floreani RN
August 8, 2021
Many of you may not know of Dr Palmer´s concern and care of those with Mental Illness. I worked at The Friendship Program and he helped get it started and volunteered as one of our first Medical Directors. He was so understanding of those who needed help. He will truly be missed.
Jeannie & Bob Peterson
August 8, 2021
Our deepest sympathies. Bill was truly one special guy!
Susan Polack
August 8, 2021
So sorry for the loss of this great man!!! I got the privilege of working with him.he was a brilliant and funny guy!!! His wife was always by his side and son David was a pleasure to work with. He will definitely be missed by all!
Tom Foley
August 8, 2021
Loving, Caring, Genuine describe Dr.Palmer. Someone I completely trust and consider a friend. I will miss him. Sending prayers to his family, staff and friends.
Janyce Dawson
August 8, 2021
Our sympathies to the family, friends, staff, and patients of Dr. Palmer. He was one in a million and will be sorely missed.
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Heafey Hoffmann Dworak Cutler Mortuaries - West Center Chapel7805 W. Center Road, Omaha, NE 68124
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