Palmer Sawyer

Palmer Dickerman Sawyer, 85, of Rochester, passed away on Saturday, October 6, 2018 in Rochester. Palmer was born May 6, 1933 in Viola Township to Avery and Margaret (Dickerman) Sawyer. Palmer was a 1951 graduate of Elgin High School. After graduation, Palmer proudly served his country as a member of the U.S. Army from 1951 to 1953. After his military service, he began farming with his father. On April 2, 1966, in Rochester, he married Betty Beske. The couple lived on a farm near Elgin before moving to Rochester in 1999. Palmer loved watching basketball, The Vikings and putting together jigsaw puzzles. He is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Betty; children, Robert (Michelle) Sawyer of Rochester, LuAnn (Alan) Hensel of Durham, NC and grandchildren, Allison and Natalie. Palmer was preceded in death by his parents and by his brother, Martin. A funeral service will be held 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, October 17, 2018 at Bethel Lutheran Church, 810 3rd Ave. SE, Rochester. Visitation will be held from 4:00-7:00 p.m. Tuesday, October 16, 2018 at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes, 5421 Royal Place NW, Rochester and one hour prior to the service at the church. The Rev. Norman Wahl will be officiating with burial at Oakwood Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to The American Cancer Society in memory of Palmer. To share a special memory or condolence, please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com