Don Grove Palmer passed peacefully in his sleep on September 26, 2025, with his belovedwife, Kay, by his side. 

Born to Lucius Palmer and Freda Helgeson at Long Beach Memorial Hospital on September 24, 1931, Don was a fourth-generation Southern Californian. He served the rank of corporal in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. While stationed in Indianapolis, he met the love of his life, Virginia Kay Palmer. They were married for 71 years.

Don was a graduate of California State University, Los Angeles, and became a social studiesand wood shop teacher at James Madison Junior High School in North Hollywood for 36 years. He was very proud to serve as a public school teacher. Don was also one of the founding members of the United Teachers Los Angeles teachers’ union for the Los Angeles Unified School District.

Don is survived by his wife Kay; his children Dr. Erik Palmer (Dr. Kimberley Yang) and DeenaPlatman (Steve); his grandchildren Mitchell Platman (Paige), Lauren Platman (Will Thompson), and Wyatt Palmer; and his great grandchild Walker Thompson.

Catalina Island held a special place in his heart since he was a teenager. He worked summers at Leo’s Drug Store and as a coin diver when the Great White Steamer was still in operation. Don regularly returned to Catalina Island throughout his life to enjoy the weather and memories it brought to him.

His life was defined by giving through his work, friends, and family. Don will be greatly missed by all the people that knew him.