Marilyn M. Palmer, age 90, of Smithland, Iowa, passed away on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at her residence of Smithland, Iowa.
Graveside Services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, June 19, 2026, at the Little Sioux Township Cemetery of Smithland, Iowa. Pastor Clifton “Mick” Struble will officiate.
The Armstrong-Van Houten Funeral Home of Mapleton, Iowa, is in charge of the funeral arrangements. Condolences may be sent online www.armstrongfuneral.com.
Marilyn Maxine Palmer, the daughter of Walter A. and Isabelle M. (Gorseth) Kirkpatrick, was born on June 24, 1935, in Sergeant Bluff, Iowa. She received her education from Hornick High School and then went on to attend Western Iowa Tech Community College.
On June 27, 1953, Marilyn married Paul J. Palmer in Dakota City, Nebraska. Together they raised a family of nine children: Jeffrey, Curtis, John, Kris, James Sr., Kevin, Bryan, Carla, and Debra. Although the family lived in several communities over the years, they spent most of their lives in the Washta and Smithland, Iowa, areas. Marilyn worked for a variety of businesses throughout her life, but her most cherished and important role was that of a devoted homemaker, caring for and supporting her family.
In her free time, Marilyn enjoyed a variety of hobbies, including crafting, bowling, and supporting charitable causes. She spent many hours quilting, crocheting, and knitting, taking special pride in the beautiful afghans she created for family and friends. Marilyn also loved baking—especially cookies—and treasured every opportunity to spend time with her grandchildren. She will be dearly missed by those who knew and loved her.
Left to cherish her memory include her children Curt (Vicky) Palmer of Whiting, IA, Kris (Fred) Barge of Whiting, IA and Carla Palmer of Schleswig, IA; 33 grandchildren, 60 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great grandson; brother Terry (Anne) Kirkpatrick of Mineral Wells, TX; along with extended relatives and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents Walter and Isabelle Kirkpatrick; husband Paul Palmer; sons Bryan Palmer, John Palmer, Kevin Palmer, James Palmer Sr., and Jeffrey Palmer; daughter Debra (Brent) Kroll; grandsons Robert Palmer, Donald Palmer, and Cory Theeler.
Previous Events
Graveside Services
19
Jun
Smithland, IA
Cemetery Details
Location
Smithland, IA 51056
