Joseph Palmer

Joseph Lee Palmer, “Joe”, “Dinky”, “Bumpa”
Age 64, a man who was loved by many, passed away Saturday, January 4, 2014, following a brief illness. He was surrounded by his loving family and friends as he made his final lap on that Saturday morning. The family will receive friends and relatives at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. 4th St., Watkins Glen, on Saturday, January 11, 2014 from 1:00pm-3:00pm; followed by a memorial service at 3:00pm. Joe was born May 13, 1949 to Francis and Delores “Louise” (Johnson) Palmer. He was part of a large family who taught him to always work hard and give back to those in need whenever possible. Joe was close with all of his family. He had a special bond with his brother Butch, which involved daily visits or talks on the phone. Joe is survived by his partner in life, Diana Grinolds. Joe and Diana shared a lifetime together-unequaled by many. His quiet ways and tender heart will be deeply missed. Also surviving is his daughter, Jenniffer Townsand of Hornell, NY; the children of Diana, who loved Joe as a father, Martin Grinolds, Waterloo NY, Dale Grinolds Jr., Pennellville NY, Kelly Bond, Watkins Glen, NY, and Kevin (Carly) Grinolds, Charlotte NC. Joe is also survived by his mother, Louise Palmer of Horseheads, NY; siblings, Delores “Dolly” (John) LaVigne, Edgewater FL, Bonnie (Albert) Austin, Ray ”Butch” (Jackie) Palmer, Diana (Lacy) Little, Shelia (James) Comfort and Gary (Darla) Palmer, all of Horseheads NY, and Cindy (Tom) Ruggerio of Buffalo NY. Grandchildren, Andrew Cupp, Jeffery Paul, Joseph Paul, Levi Grinolds, Brandon Bond (Jessika), Philip Bond (Brittany), Deven Bond, Elle Grinolds, and Leah Grinolds. Joe also had many surviving nieces and nephews whom he loved deeply. Joe was predeceased by his father, Francis Palmer and his nephew, Scott Palmer, son of his sister Diana Little. Joe was always one to help others in any possible way. He was always the person you could count on to change a tire or give a ride to the airport. He was the person you sent your children to when they were selling fundraising items, for surely he would purchase something. A freezer full of frozen pizzas validates that character. Joe especially loved helping children. He frequently participated in fundraisers, the Arctic League or anywhere he felt he could help by donating his time. He was a man who would give money to a total stranger if it meant their kids would have a better birthday or Christmas. He was an avid Go-Kart enthusiast who supported and sponsored many young drivers, including his grandsons Brandon, Philip and Devens’ Go-Kart careers, through Joe Palmer Trucking. Joseph wanted all children to have a chance to succeed. Joe could often be found on Friday or Saturday nights at local stock car races. If you knew Joe, you knew he had an avid passion for any type of automobile racing. He supported many drivers over the years and loved being involved with this sport, as well as spending time with friends. Joe was a self-employed truck driver and logger. Joe Palmer Trucking tractor trailers were busy on the roads hauling logs and honking to people he knew. Joe was very proud of his accomplishments in his work field. He was fortunate to have many friendships grow from these work experiences. A great friend and second family to forge from this work life were Jimmy and Susie Munroe of JM Trucking and Finger Lakes Forestry Services. A true friend is how he spoke of Jimmy. Joe, you can never tell where your influence will stop. People will remember the little things you did, the way you made them feel and how their lives were better because of you. You will be missed and loved for many, many years. You may remember Joe with a memorial donation to the Arctic League (arcticleague.com) or Muscular Dystrophy Association (mda.org). Please sign his guestbook or “Light a Candle” in his memory at www.Royce-Chedzoy.com.