Van Buren Resident, Jerry Palmer, was born in 1942. Upon graduating with an Electrical Engineering degree from Purdue University, he joined the U.S. Army. Jerry went through jump school and served as an ordinance officer while deployed in Germany. After honorable discharge, he began a long career (32 years) with Indiana Michigan Power. Upon retirement, Jerry remained active with electrical work part-time, but began enjoying life more and focused on giving back. Jerry Palmer is known to have completed over 1200 skydives, and achieved Jump Master Certification. He even performed two free-fall skydives off of El Capitan Mountain at Yosemite National Park. Jerry also entertained the local community over the years through precision jumps.
Jerry always had a passion for helping the community through his electrical engineering expertise. He was heavily involved with the Marion Easter Pageant, Van Buren Popcorn Festival, Marion Philharmonic Orchestra, and many other community event organizations.
Jerry took interest in designing and developing websites, and took initiatives to create and manage nearly 50 of them, highlighting stories and photos for local groups including fire departments, prominently the New York Fire Department Ten House of whom he had developed a relationship after visiting them after 9⁄11.
Photography was also a service Jerry provided on a volunteer basis.
On December 9th, 2017, the life-long Grant County resident passed away at the age of 75. Although, he never sought recognition for his seemingly infinite contributions, he will forever be known as a champion in the community. It was evident that Jerry loved his country and paid respects in the best way he knew how for those who serve or served.
Jerry’s Facebook account was re-established as “Remembering Jerry Palmer” for community members to read and post memories of him.
Below are some notable websites Jerry created and maintained over the years.