Frederick Lee Palmer

Frederick Lee Palmer, 73, of Columbia, died Sunday, November 22, 2020, from COVID-19 complications. Born in Fulton on July 13, 1947, to Marvin and Mildred (Jones) Palmer, Fred wed Cynthia (Cash) Palmer on August 31, 1968. They remained married until her death in 2009. Fred was valedictorian of New Bloomfield H.S. Class of 1965, and earned an accounting degree at MU. He served during Vietnam as an Army nuclear warhead officer in Turkey and remained in the Reserves, retiring as a major. He also held a long career in business. He enjoyed family activities with scouting and hot air ballooning. Fred is survived by his daughter, Vicki Palmer and son Robert Palmer, both of Columbia; brother, Bill (Marion) Palmer; sister-in-law, Joann Palmer; stepbrother, Harry Wilson; two nieces; a nephew; and their families. He was preceded in death by his wife; parents; stepfather, John Wilson; mother-in-law, Ila Cash Watts; brother, Wally "W.R." Palmer; stepbrother, Gary Wilson; and nephew, Rev. Kevin Palmer. Services will be held at a future date. Memorial contributions: Balloon Federation of America's Junior Balloonist Program, Dry Fork Baptist Church cemetery fund, or charity of the donor's choice. You can submit a tribute online at www.parkermillard.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Parker-Millard Funeral Service and Crematory,12 East Ash Street, Columbia, Missouri, 65203; (573) 449-4153