Joseph Peter Palmier

Jul 10, 1937 -

Aug 6, 2024

Joseph P. Palmier, esteemed lawyer and pilot of all things airworthy, took to the skies one last time on Aug. 6, 2024, at the age of 87. Joe was born in Brookville, Pa., to Anthony and Linda Palmier. Joe graduated from Brookville High School in 1955, studied at Franklin & Marshall, earning his bachelor's degree in psychology in 1959, and received his J.D. from Willamette University in 1968; he continued to practice as a Doctor of Law for the next 56 years. Joe was appointed as a Reserve Commissioned Officer of the United States Army, stationing him in Alaska in 1962, where he would build a life and call home for the next 65 years. Joe opened up his own flight school, South Bay LTD in 1985, stationed at Merrill Field, where both of his sons learned to fly under his wing.

Joe leaves behind his wife of 24 years, Meredith Palmier; son, Michael J. Palmier of Florida; daughter, Caryn C. Palmier of New Jersey; stepson, Michael L. Hixssen of Alaska; stepdaughters, Johnna Witte of California, Brooke Sobol of Idaho, and Valerie Kumra of California; grandchildren, LariAnn E. Lee of Alaska, Jacqueline E. Hixssen of Alaska, Danielle Witte of Oklahoma, Mason Witte of California, Nick Harling of California, Kai Kumra of California, and Bella Kumra of California; and great-grandchild, Connor Witte of California. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Jacqueline Palmier; and second wife, Barbara Palmier.

Joe wished to be cremated with his ashes dispersed at the discretion of his family. He requested to honor his faith with a Roman Catholic funeral mass; information regarding the mass and a reception to follow will be announced as the family coordinates.