Robert Joseph Palmer

Robert Joseph Palmer, 66, of Grosse Pointe, Michigan, passed away peacefully on March 11, 2026. Born on August 22, 1959, to Thomas and Marguerite (Slevin) Palmer, he grew up in Grosse Pointe and graduated from Grosse Pointe South High School.

A talented house painter, Rob took genuine pride in transforming spaces into something beautiful and uniquely his own. He spent the majority of his career working alongside his brother Jim, a partnership rooted as deeply in family as in work. Music was one of his greatest joys; he possessed an encyclopedic knowledge of songs across all genres and a special fondness for one-hit wonders. Many of the family’s happiest hours were spent gathered around the dining room table, singing along to his carefully chosen playlists, where Rob’s warmth and enthusiasm made him the heart of every gathering.

Rob had a rare gift for connection. He could strike up a conversation with anyone, and people naturally opened up to him. Kind-hearted and generous to his core, he was the sort of person who would give you the shirt off his back without hesitation. Even in his final days, the nursing staff described him as the kindest patient they had ever cared for. He shared a deep love of cats with his lifelong friend Rose, whose companionship brought him great comfort. Throughout the significant health challenges of his last decade, Rob faced each difficulty with quiet courage, grace, and resilience.

A man of faith, Rob is now at peace, reunited with his beloved parents, Tom and Peg. He is survived by his siblings, David (Kris), Diane (Karl), Jim (Denise), and Kath (Ed), and by his cherished nieces and nephews: Sarah (David), Michaela, Elizabeth (Elton), Jimmy (Tori), Kay, Tyler (Morgan), Teddy (Kaylee), Tommy, and Maggie.