Stephen Eugene Palmer Sr.

Stephen “Steve” Eugene Palmer Sr., 78, of Coal Valley, passed away on April 24, 2026, at his home.

Cremation rites will be accorded, and burial will be at Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Davenport at a later date, Memorials may be made to Honor Flight of the Quad Cities.

Steve was born on January 9, 1948, in Washington, Iowa the son of John P. and Myrna L (Armstrong) Palmer. He married Theresa “Terrie” Ferris on May 19, 1984, in Coal Valley. Steve was a U.S. Veteran having served in the Army from 1968-78 and was a three-time Purple Heart Recipient. He received his Engineering Degree from the University of Massachusetts. He had worked as a long-haul truck driver for 42 years, retiring from Xylem Trucking, Ltd. He was a member of the Washington American Legion and traveled to Washington D.C. through the Honor Flight. Steve was a RC airplane and helicopter enthusiast and adored his long-haired dachshunds, Pete and Suzzie. He loved being with his grandchildren and great granddaughters were the joy of his life.

He is survived by his wife, Terrie; children, Stephanie S. (Aaron) Richards, Wichita Falls, TX, Stephen E. Palmer, Jr. of Stanwood, IA, Sharie S. (Tom) Vanaman, Davenport, Sheldon E. (Jen) Palmer, Coal Valley. He was loved by many grandchildren and great grandchildren. He is also survived by his half-sister, Toni (Brent) Coi-Price, Jacksonville, FL.

He was preceded in death by his infant son, Shelton E. Palmer, parents, John and Myrna; twin sister, Mary Jo Bragg and youngest brother, Scott Palmer.

Memories may be shared online by visiting esterdahl.com.