Robert Lee Palmer

Robert Lee Palmer was born on March 30th, 1947, in Barberton, Ohio to the union of the late Blair and Mary Palmer. 13 children would come from this union. Robert was by far the strongest man we knew. He used all his strength to fight a long, courageous battle against cancer. Fighting cancer seemed to be nothing compared to the strength it took to fight for our country while serving as a Soldier in the United States Marine Corps. Robert was a “PROUD” Vietnam Veteran earning several medals and accolades! 

On the afternoon of July 8, 2024, Robert was talking and laughing with family as usual, but we believe deep down, Robert knew this battle was no longer his to fight. At the age of 77 years old, Robert passed away with family by his side holding his hand. 

Living most of their life in Akron, Ohio, Robert married Betty, the love of his life, on June 30th, 1973. From their union, 4 children were born. Robert devoted his life to providing and taking care of his family. Being a husband and father was one of Robert’s most valued accomplishments. Robert and Betty had a relationship like no other. It was easy to see how much they loved each other. Throughout his illness, Robert always made sure his family was well cared for. 

After serving as a Marine, Robert devoted over 25 years at Daimler Chrysler before retiring. Robert was also a Martial Arts expert who was eager to teach his family and friends everything he knew. Robert also loved to take family vacations. As a member of The Institute of Divine Metaphysical Research, Robert was excited to pack his family up into his big beautiful blue van and drive clear across the country to attend class conventions. A couple of memorable conventions were held in Texas and California and yes, our family loved every minute of those long road trips. 

Robert was always full of laughter and jokes. His laugh was contagious. Robert would call at rather odd hours just to say hi and to say something that would surely make you chuckle. Kung-fu flicks were one of his favorite pastimes along with working on cars, fishing, and solving any problems that would arise. If he didn’t know the answer, he would spend countless hours reading to research an answer. Robert spent the latter years with his buddy Pounce (the cat). When Pounce came into Robert’s life, Pounce became his best friend. Pounce ate better than all of us and we knew not to mess with him, or we’d have to answer to Dad. 

Robert is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Betty Palmer; 4 children, Brandon Palmer, Malissa (Marvin) Jordan, Juston (Christine) Palmer and Jason (Kelly) Palmer; 7 grandchildren, Marcus, Ravin, Marvin Jr., Shaye, Donovan, Xavier and Jacob; great-granddaughter, Seylah; and siblings, Eva (Estel) McCall, Ethel (Larry) Green and Duane Palmer. Robert was also loved by his nieces, nephews and extended family members. 

In addition to his parents, Robert is preceded in death by his 5 brothers, Blair, Edward, Henry, Joseph and Gerrone; 3 sisters, Catherine, Martha and Ernestine; and favorite fur buddy, Pounce.

Family and friends are welcome to visit at Newcomer Cremations Funerals & Receptions (131 N. Canton Rd, Akron, OH 44305) on Saturday, July 27, 2024 from 11am until noon. Robert's Funeral Service will begin at 12:00pm.

Burial with military honors will take place on Monday, July 29, 2024 at 12:15pm at Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery (10175 Rawiga Rd, Seville, OH 44273).

To share a memory of Robert or to leave a special message for his family, please click the Share Memories button above.