Don Palmer

Obituary



Don M. Palmer, 76, of Topeka, passed away Monday, January 18, 2021.

He was born May 12, 1944, in Great Bend, Kansas, the son of Harold and Edith (Hunsley) Palmer. He was a 1962 graduate of Hays High School, a 1969 graduate of Fort Hays State University and received a Master's Degree from Kansas State University in 1970. He was a Screaming Eagle member of the U.S. Army, 101st Airborne Division.

Don was employed by the State of Kansas Division of Workers Compensation, retiring in 2011.

Don married Janet Pechanec on April 1, 1967 in Hays, Kansas. She survives in Topeka. Other survivors include two children, Jenny M. (Chris) Wilson of Overland Park, KS and Todd M. (Stacy) Palmer of Wamego, KS; three grandchildren, Noah M. Wilson, Zachary L. Wilson and Austin L. Wilson; and his twin brother, Lon R. (Ann) Palmer of Hoisington, KS; his brother, Paul E. (Sue) Palmer of Kansas City, KS; and his furry companions, Charlie and Lilli.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Douglas Palmer; and his sister, Polly Colony.

Don was an avid golfer, wishing he was related to Arnold Palmer. He loved Drum Corp International, had multiple collections, and after retiring, enjoyed the Covered Wagons motorhome group.

Honoring his request, cremation is planned. Private inurnment will be in Mount Allen Cemetery, Hays, KS. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions may be made to Fort Hays State University Foundation, P.O. Box 1060, Hays, KS 67601 or to Helping Hands Humane Society, 5720 SW 21st St, Topeka, KS 66604.

Condolences may be left by guest book at www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com or by email at keithleyfuneralhomes@gmail.com

















Services