Palmer, Paul Joseph, 85, of Weston, MA and Fort Myers, FL, Tuesday, February 7, 2017.

A devoted husband, caring father, loving grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle and close family friend to many, Paul was an inspiration to all that knew him. Paul was resolutely hard working and always giving of himself to others. Paul passed away peacefully Tuesday morning surrounded by his family.

Paul was born in Auburn, MA as the middle of seven brothers and sisters. Upon graduation, he went into the Marines. After serving his country, Paul proudly attended and graduated from Saint Michael’s College in 1956, and was still an active alumni and supporter of the college. Paul was a successful long-time executive at IBM having worked there for 36 years. He was a devoted husband to his wife of 57 years, Sarah McDermott Palmer. They enjoyed retirement life together at Fiddlesticks in Fort Myers and their summer home in West Yarmouth. Paul stood by her faithfully as she battled Alzheimer's and led his family through it all by example. Paul lived a long, full life right to the end, playing golf at Brae Burn Country Club, contributing professionally on many boards, including Cramer Productions, active in his church community, and most importantly, being there and ever present for his large extended family and friends.

Paul leaves behind seven children, Paul J Palmer Jr. of Groton, Mark Palmer of Newton, Michael Palmer and his wife Stacey of Norfolk, Elizabeth Plantamura and her husband Alan of Wrentham, James Palmer and his wife Lauren of Medfield, John Palmer and his wife Lumpoon of Southborough, and Sarah Daigneault and her husband Andy of Holliston. His eighteen grandchildren and three great grandchildren will miss him greatly. He is also survived by his siblings John Palmer and Rosemary Spillane.

Friends and family are invited to pay their respects at Henry J. Burke and Sons Funeral Home, Wellesley, MA on Sunday, February 12 from 2-6 pm. A Celebration of Life service will take place on Monday, February 13 at 11am at St. John the Evangelist Church in Wellesley with burial immediately following at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Needham. In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to Alzheimer’s Association in honor of his beloved wife, Sarah M. Palmer.