Richard Palmer, 84

Richard Palmer, age 84, passed away at Northern Idaho Advanced Care Hospital in Post Falls, ID on Feb. 3, 2014.

Richard was born in San Pedro, Calif., on March 16, 1929, to Jane Ethel (Huber) Palmer. Richard enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corp in 1946, and later served in the U.S. Marine Corp. He worked on the development of the Strategic Air Command in Japan and served in the Korean War. He was honorably discharged in 1951.

Richard married Frances Ann Barry on December 1, 1951, in Santa Monica, Calif. In 1954, Richard and Frances welcomed their first son, Michael, while they were still in Santa Monica. In 1955, they moved to Coeur d’Alene, ID and their second son, John W., was born in 1956. In 1966, they moved to Anchorage, AK and lived there for 21 years until returning to Coeur d’Alene. Richard was a PBX installer for General Telephone until 1966, and then for the Municipality of Anchorage Telephone Company, retiring in 1987.

Richard was an active member of the Shriners, American Legion, VFW, Elks, Cooties, Eagles, and life member of the Marine Corp League. He was a pilot and enjoyed flying. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing, golfing, boating, bowling, swimming, and water skiing. Richard was a very devoted family man, and loved to spend time with his family and friends.

Richard is survived by his wife of 62 years, Frances; two sons: Michael (Trina) of Las Vegas, Nev., and John (Sheryl) of Blanchard, ID; sister, Corrine Allison; several grandchildren and great grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. Richard was preceded in death by his mother.

Memorials may be made to Shriners Hospital for Children, 911 W. 5th Ave., Spokane, Wash., 99204. A Celebration of Life for Richard will be held this spring. English Funeral Chapel, Coeur d’Alene, is in charge of the arrangements. Please sign Richard’s guest registry and view his online memorial at www.englishfuneralchapel.com.