Maris Adams

Maris Yingst Palmer Adams, age 83, passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 7, 2021 at her home at Trinity Center at Luther Park in Des Moines.

Maris was born October 28, 1937 to William Vincent and Marie (Stilwell) Yingst. She was raised on the south side of Des Moines with her brother, Roger Yingst. Maris shared her childhood with Jean Blackburn as they spent time going to the stables, swimming, and going to the Fair. She was raised in a religious home and grew up with a love of children, baby sitting at a young age. She even saved a lock of hair from one child she cared for, keeping it in her photo album. Jean introduced Maris to John Palmer, as she was dating his brother. Maris fell in love with his dark hair and bright blue eyes. John served in the Navy during World War II. Maris married at 18 years old and started their family. She was blessed with two boys and two girls. Maris raised her family in the church, faithfully attending every week. She also served as a Sunday School teacher for five years.

The family enjoyed activities together, camping all over Iowa, ice skating in the winter, and always having an evening meal together. Maris was a stay-at-home mom, and budgeted the family’s income to have a comfortable lifestyle. Maris set aside her goal of being a nurse and helped her husband, John study to become a stationary engineer. Her daughters followed in her footsteps to have careers in human services, the oldest in the mental health field and the youngest in nursing. Maris worked for many years at Orchard Place. Maris’ sons excelled, one in sales in the automotive industry, and the other as a driver. John’s life was cut short due to cancer, his youngest child just out of high school, the oldest in college.

Maris is now in God’s arms with her beloved husband, John.

After John’s passing, Maris met and married Jack Adams. They enjoyed traveling together, something Maris had always dreamed of doing. The family treasures their memories of family gatherings for the holidays, Maris’ favorite being Christmas. Her budgeting skills came in handy during this time and she always made sure her children had very special Christmases, never worrying about the expense. These family values were passed down to her children and grandchildren, each taking parenting as a full time devoted commitment. She will always be in our hearts as we live our lives by her example.

She is survived by her children, Rebecca Palmer Lahai, Mike Palmer, Carolyn Palmer Guess (Cole), and Steve Palmer (Karla); her foster son, Gary Hammon; her current husband, Jack Adams; five grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; siblings, Roger Yingst, Michael Yingst, and Joy Yingst; numerous step-siblings; her beloved cat, Bootsie; and other extended family and friends.

In addition to her first husband, John, Maris was preceded in death by her parents, William and Marie Yingst; brother, Milard “Vince” Yingst; and step-brother, Barry McIntyre.

Services will be held Friday, February 12, 2021 at Hamilton’s Funeral Home, 605 Lyon Street, Des Moines. Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Funeral service will begin at 1:00 p.m. and will be followed by burial at Avon Cemetery. There will be a luncheon after the burial at Commerce Community Church, 4007 High Street, West Des Moines, 50265.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Commerce Community Church in loving memory of Maris.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

Print