Leroy Palmer

LEROY PALMER, 72 ROCKFORD - Leroy Palmer, 72, passed away peacefully Thursday, June 13, 2013, at Neighbors Nursing Home. Born March 9, 1941, in Walnut Ridge, AR; son of Louis and Bertha Palmer. The family moved to Rockford in the late 40's where Leroy grew up, joined the U.S. Marine Corp, and met Winona Nutter. They married in 1961. They moved to Stillman Valley in 1972 to raise their 3 children. After his discharge from the Marine Corp, Leroy and Wendy came to settle in the Rockford area. Leroy worked as a machinist for Rockford Machine and Tool and later Sundstrand. Along with has brother, Clifford, Leroy became a General Contractor and started their company, Rock Valley Builders. Later in life, Leroy came to be a commercial fisherman along the Pecatonica River and in 2006, fulfilled his goal of visiting all 50 states. Leroy was an avid hunter and fisherman and was a longtime member of the SM & SF Club where he enjoyed their park and the camaraderie of the members. His most treasured time was to spend time with his grandchildren. Survivors include sons, Christopher (Elizabeth), of Rockford, IL and Dirk (Angie) of Stillman Valley, IL; daughter, Holli (Doug) Connell of Rockford, IL; grandchildren, Torin and Cassady Palmer; brothers, Bill (Barb) Palmer of Stillman Valley, IL, Larry (Sheila) Palmer of Stillman Valley, IL and Robert Palmer of CA. Predeceased by his parents and 10 brothers and sisters The family expresses their deepest gratitude towards Leroy's nephew, Dennis Palmer, his nurses, Lisa and Lydia and the staff at Neighbors for all the care and attention Leroy received.. A memorial service at 11 a.m. Saturday, July 6, at the SM & SF Park at 7625 Kishwaukee Road. All family and friends are invited to attend, and a luncheon to follow immediately. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Alzheimer's Association or go to: act.alz.org/goto/Leroy. Farrell Holland Gale Funeral Home in Stillman Valley assisted the family with arrangements. Visit FarrellHollandGale.com.