Elmer David Palmer

A simple man passed away at the age of 94, while drinking his nightly beer. Elmer David Palmer, “The Elcho Fisherman”, as he was fondly called, passed into everlasting life on October 27, 2024 at Eastview Rehab in Antigo. Elmer had a deep faith in Jesus and was ready to go home and see his family again.

Born on March 29, 1930 and having lived in Elcho his entire life, he was a great historian. He could share the history of Elcho and everyone in it. His mind was amazing until the very end of his life. He loved to fish and loved to talk about fishing. He never owned a TV, a microwave or a car. He liked listening to the radio, eating at Koni K’s and riding his bike or walking around town. In the old days, he would hop a train in Elcho and ride to Milwaukee!

Once Elmer moved to Eastview, he was lucky enough to have many friends that helped him come to

Elcho every Saturday. Many thanks to Tony and Ricki Bierdemann for driving him to Elcho on Saturday mornings. He loved spending time at Koni K’s and then later at the Cozy Cottage. Thank you to Carl & Lisa Bloechl who invited Elmer into their home. He also stayed many nights by John Jacobs and Skip Kashuba. He even managed to get a ride back to Antigo after mass on Sunday. You have no idea what a blessing that was so Elmer could go home and visit. It is certain that many others helped Elmer throughout his years and a million “thank yous” to you all!!

Elmer was the last surviving member of his immediate family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dudley & Elizabeth (Montgomery) Palmer. His brothers Bill, Wallace, Eugene & Kenny (Dudley) and sisters Irene & Marlene. He is survived by many nieces and nephews.

Elmer served in the US Army Reserve in the 4th Medical Battalion in Germany from 1951-1953.

A heartfelt thank you to Eastview. You took wonderful care of Elmer these last 10 years.

A funeral service will be held on Friday at Upper Room Church in Elcho at 11:00 am with Reverend Shane Wheeler officiating. Visitation will be from 10:00 am until the service at the church. The interment will be in Elcho Cemetery with military honors.

“For the last 10 years we spoke every Sunday night. I am going to miss you, Elmer” – Vicky