Kurtis J. Palmer

Kurtis Palmer, 68, died unexpectedly on December 28, 2024, after slipping on the icy driveway at his home in Appleton. The bad situation was compounded by blood thinners. The sudden, tragic loss of this sunny, smiling, upbeat, always-reliable guy will be deeply felt by his wife, Wendy Sieja, family and friends. Kurt was born in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, on January 17, 1956, the son of Vera (King) and Clarence Palmer. His mom once said of him, "He was a happy baby." I (Wendy, his wife) responded "He's a happy adult." Also, I told him early in our relationship that he had "kind eyes." That steady kindness, and his calming love and support--"Whatever you need, daahlin"--never once wavered.

He worked for Pieper Electric/Systems Technologies, through the IBEW union, as a data systems technologist for many years until he retired in May, 2023. He continued to work part-time as a stagehand through the I.A.T.S.E union, mostly at the Green Bay Resch Center, managing lighting and electrical setup for concerts, hockey games and other events. He especially enjoyed blasting the air horn and flashing the lights whenever the Gamblers scored. He also enjoyed working on setup for major shows like Cirque du Soleil, and rock concerts. He very much impressed his future wife on their second date by not only getting her into the Cirque Dralion show, but also behind the scenes for a catered meal alongside some of the performers.

He filled his free time by riding his motorcycle, shooting pool in his basement rec room (thanks, Mike Townsend), cooking, doing projects around the house, and he took up golf after his retirement. He loved his snuggly cat, Max, who died in September of 2024 at age 19. Kurt was known for making unexpected quirky observations that made people laugh. Mostly he loved spending time with Wendy, whom he met in 2011 and married April 11, 2015. They loved going on random road day trips--taking turns onto unknown but appealing roads, and ending up who knows where--discovering cool little parks, rustic roads, waterfalls, art galleries, restaurants, and other fun places. With her retirement on December 6, 2024, they were looking forward to the freedom, fun and exploration that 2025 would bring. 

In addition to Wendy, Kurt is survived by his sister Susan Palmer, of Eugene, Oregon, and by in-laws and many friends. There are no immediate plans for a funeral or memorial service, but a gathering for friends and family may be arranged at a later date.

Would love to read any special memories you have to share! And a donation to the Safe Haven Pet Sanctuary in Green Bay would be appreciated if you are able. 

Hug someone you care about today. When you go out in winter--for god's sake be ice-aware. And, if you can safely do so, have a Miller Lite in Kurt's memory.