Jack Palmer

John (Jack) W. Palmer died peacefully at age 97 on January 21, 2026 in his home at St. Andrews Village in Aurora, CO. He grew up on the South Side of Chicago, where he attended Mount Carmel High School. He went on to attend the University of Notre Dame and rooting for the Fighting Irish football team became a lifelong source of joy for him.

Jack married his high school sweetheart, Doris Anderson, on Saturday, October 1, 1949. They raised 7 wonderful children and were blessed with 12 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild.

Jack worked for the Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company for 38 years, starting as a Territory Salesman in Chicago, IL and completing his career in the executive role of VP/Director of Worldwide Earthmover Tire Operations in Akron, OH.

He retired in 1986 and he and Doris moved to Colorado Springs, CO. They loved living close to many of their kids and grand/great-grandchildren. They also traveled both nationally and internationally for many years. Doris passed away in 2014 shortly after they celebrated 65 beautiful years together.

Even in retirement, Jack remained a formidable force. He ran several marathons in both the US and Europe. And, well into his 80s, he continued to participate in running/walking events in Colorado such as the Cherry Creek Sneak and the Thanksgiving Turkey Trot. He also served as HOA President for 8 years in Colorado Springs, and then again for 7 years in the Cherry Creek neighborhood of Denver.

Jack moved to St. Andrews Village Retirement Community in 2016 where he met Alyce Fitzgerald who became a good friend and companion. He served that community as Chairman of The Activities Committee and also as a member of the Service Appreciation Fund Committee, and an enthusiastic SAV Ambassador.

Jack was a wonderful and much-loved father and grandfather (gramps). He will be greatly missed.

The Funeral Mass will take place at Horan & McConaty on Wednesday, January 28, at 10:00am, with reception to follow immediately after.

Flowers may be sent to Horan & McConaty, 1091 S. Colorado Blvd., Denver CO, 80246. Phone # 1-303-757-1238.