Donald “Don” James Palmer

“Donald Palmer, 81, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has officially answered his final alarm and reported for duty elsewhere. Whether heaven was ready for him is another question entirely.

Don lived life exactly the way he wanted—with a colorful vocabulary, zero filter, and enough duct tape to fix just about anything…including his clothes. Why buy a new jacket or pair of pants when a strip of duct tape could give it “a few more good years”? To Don, duct tape wasn’t just a tool—it was a fashion accessory and a perfectly reasonable repair kit.

A proud Marine and dedicated firefighter, Don spent his life serving others with courage, grit, and a work ethic that never quit. He faced challenges head-on, never backed down, and wasn’t afraid to tell you exactly what he thought—even if you didn’t ask. Especially if you didn’t ask.

When he wasn’t working or hunting, you could usually find him wearing one of his signature Hawaiian shirts, proving that tropical style belongs anywhere if you wear it with enough confidence. His stories, quick wit, and perfectly timed one-liners—often sprinkled with words we probably shouldn’t repeat here—could make just about anyone laugh.

If Don taught us anything, it was that life doesn’t have to be perfect to be good. Sometimes all you need is determination, a roll of duct tape, a Hawaiian shirt, and the confidence to say exactly what’s on your mind.

In his honor, wear your loudest Hawaiian shirt, share a story that would make him laugh, spend some time outdoors, and if your clothes get a tear, don’t throw them away. Patch them with duct tape and wear them proudly. Don would approve.

Semper Fidelis, Don. Your watch is over, but your stories, laughter, and one-of-a-kind spirit will live on forever.”