Born Mary LaVon Brunkow on September 18, 1951, in Elmwood, Nebraska, to Verle and Alice Brunkow, Mary’s life was rooted in the values that would define her forever: faith, family, hard work, and unconditional love.
Some of Mary’s happiest childhood memories were spent alongside her father at sprint car races, eagerly tagging along to garages as he worked on race cars. Those early experiences helped shape the determination, resilience, and strong work ethic that became hallmarks of her life.
Faith, family, and the Nebraska Cornhuskers were the cornerstones of Mary’s world. She wasn’t simply a fan, she believed they were her Huskers. Rain or shine, win or lose, no matter the sport, Mary was cheering them on, often watching the television while listening to the radio so she wouldn’t miss a single play.
Mary was the heart of the Palmer family. She faithfully showed up for every gymnastics meet, soccer game, church program, company event, holiday, birthday, and family celebration. Her presence was steady, her encouragement unwavering. She taught her children that perseverance, faith, and love could carry them through even life’s greatest challenges.
Always busy and always thinking of others, Mary found joy in caring for those she loved. She treasured Wednesday shopping trips to Von Maur with her dear friends George and Debbie, never passed up a good sale, and believed almost everything was better with a little sparkle. Whether it was a favorite mug, a hat, a golf cart, or a holiday decoration, Mary had a gift for adding a little bling and a lot of joy.
A talented painter and crafter, Mary created beautiful keepsakes that filled her family’s homes and hearts. From hand-painted seasonal décor and nutcrackers to benches, lamps, and countless personalized gifts, every piece reflected the love she poured into her family.
Mary was also a proud patriot who deeply loved her country and the freedoms it represents.
Above all else, Mary’s greatest pride and joy was her family. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Mike Palmer, and her parents, Verle and Alice Brunkow.
She leaves behind her children, Micah (Kristin), Colby (Kara), and Kelsey (Aubrey); her cherished grandchildren, Brock (Hailey), Addison, Lily, Ember, Hazel, Riona, Ryker, Koen, Bayne, and Devin; and her precious great-grandson, Levi James.
Mary’s legacy lives on in each of them; in their faith, their perseverance, their kindness, and the love they share. She taught by example that the greatest measure of a life is not found in what we accomplish, but in how faithfully we love the people around us.
Though our hearts ache in her absence, we are forever grateful for the life she lived, the love she gave so freely, and the example she set. She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.
A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at Sheridan Lutheran Church (6955 Old Cheney Rd, Lincoln, NE 68516).
Memorials are designated to Sheridan Lutheran Church.