Karen Palmer

July 23, 2022

Karen Palmer

Service Details

Karen Ann (Heise) Palmer (born September 9, 1939) spent her life dedicated to family.

Born to John Richard (Dick) and Gladys Heise, Karen grew up on the north and east sides of Des Moines. She attended North High School, graduated from East High, and attended Grinnell College. Her first job at the University of Chicago financially supported their young family as her husband finished graduate school. After the birth of their two children, Karen’s professional career was primarily spent as a medical transcriptionist as well as a community volunteer.

A devoted mother and proud grandmother, Karen was married for 60 years to Charles (Chuck) Palmer. She is survived by their daughter Diane Palmer (Mark Carpenter) and grandson Max Sanders; and their son Mike Palmer (Chrissy) and granddaughter Sophie.

Diane and Mike enjoyed many adventures with their mom over the years, traveling to Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Spain, Africa, England, France, and Sweden. But the annual trips closer to home—including to their family cabin in Nisswa, Minn.; Country Club Plaza in Kansas City; and the Amana Colonies—hold the fondest memories.

The family celebrated Karen’s life privately. In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made to the Susan G. Komen Foundation or walk in honor of Karen during a local Race for the Cure event.

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