Tom Palmer of Mendota Heights passed away on Sunday, November 1, 2026, after a long battle with lung disease. Tom was born on May 29, 1945, to Clarence (Bud) and Phyllis Palmer and had one brother, Tim Palmer of Minneapolis.

Tom was the beloved husband of Marlys (Judy) Palmer. Tom and Judy married in 1975, after which Tom lovingly embraced the role of Stepfather to Judy’s daughters Debbie and Renee. During their 51 years of marriage, they welcomed six grandchildren and fourteen great grandchildren.

Tom graduated from Rosevelt high school after which he enrolled in the Army and served in the Vietnam war for two years.

After serving in the Army, Tom went to Dunwoody College of Technology and earned his Master Electrician license. He used his skill, determination, and expertise to start his own business “Palmer Services.” Tom worked tirelessly for more than fifty years to care for his clients, who often became his friends. He had a heart to serve others and everyone who knew him knew that you could rely on him for help at any time of the day or night. Tom will be remembered for having a huge heart, a work ethic that never allowed him to quit and a sense of humor that brought joy to everyone.

Tom is survived by his wife Judy, his daughters Debbie (Ken), Renee (Scott), his grandchildren Colin, Danielle, Jesse, Lindsey, Helena and Kyle, his great grandchildren Trypp, Titus, Tate, Miles, Henry, Nellie, Lanken, Sawyer, Irelynn, Jamison, Teddy, Andy, Amelia and Chaze. He is also survived by his brother Tim Palmer and nephews Chris and John.

An open house celebration of life will be held on Wednesday, November 18th at White Funeral Home, located at 14560 Pennock Avenue,  Apple Valley, MN from Noon to 3:00 PM with sharing of memories at 2:30 and a gathering for a light meal immediately following at the Apple Valley American Legion.

Tom will be laid to rest in a private service at Fort Snelling.