Michael Palmer
My Dad wasn't perfect. But he is still the best man I ever knew.
A generous and humble man, who dropped out of school after the 9th grade to go to work and help out his family.
Dad was drafted and served on the front lines in Korea, but never let his Mother know he was in a combat unit engaging the enemy, in order to spare her any additional worry. He didn't have to serve, as the only surviving son. But he felt it was his duty the same as all the other young men drafted.
After serving, he returned to Missouri, and eventually began working for his brother in laws "John Deere" dealership. but he was restless and after a while he moved to Cleveland to work at J&L Steel Co.
Dad accepted an apprenticeship, and eventually became the maintenance manager of the basic oxygen furnaces, until he retired in 1994.
Growing up my Dad still felt the effects of the war. PTSD, although there was no name for it in those days. My sister and I always stood back whenever we had to wake him up, because he would startle awake reaching for his M14 preparing to roll into a fox hole. Even 30 years after his return from the war zone.
We had are share of Vacations growing up. Driving half way across the country, visiting family or Disney World, The St. Louis Archway to the west. Niagara Falls, Atlantic City. Not to mention half a dozen Harness racing tracks, county fairs and large amusement parks.
Dad took us fishing and exploring, sometimes bringing other kids from the neighborhood along to share in the experience.
Harness racing was Dads biggest passion. Over the years he had several race horses, mostly cheaper stock. But the thrill of winning, the interaction with the horseman, gave him great joy and a sense of pride. Years later I also owned a couple race horses, and every one I met who knew my father always said he was a good man, who no one had even heard of anyone saying anything negative about him. A rarity in a somewhat cut throat business.
Matter of fact I never met anyone who knew my Dad who didn't like him. I was always proud of my Dad, my hero.
It's going on three years now since Dad passed, and I miss him no less, I love him no less, and I feel no less sorrow or grief having lost him. I hope with all my heart and soul that when my time comes, I can once again be with my Dad. I hope I'm good enough for that.
Mike Palmer
