Glenn always liked math and science, but then, he liked reading and school in general (not surprising since both his parents graduated from a teacher training school). His happy childhood as the youngest of four children was spent in Ladysmith, Wisconsin. After graduating from high school there in 1953, he started college and began his years of study which culminated in his PhD from the University of Wisconsin in 1972. These years weren't all spent studying in college. In 1955, he enlisted in the army where he was trained in crypto-equipment in the Army Security Agency and was sent to Germany for about two years. After his return in 1957, he went on to finish his bachelor's and some years later, his master's degrees. He met and eventually married his wife, Sue, in 1960. From 1960 to 1967 he taught advanced math and physics in a high school in northern Wisconsin.
An interesting opportunity presented itself to him in 1967. He was invited to spend two years in Nigeria as part of a University of Wisconsin project sponsored by USAID to develop and improve the curriculum in the Nigerian Teacher Training Colleges. He would be teaching and writing science curriculum materials. He couldn't resist such an experience, so Glenn and Sue were off to Africa. In 1969 he returned to the University of Wisconsin to complete his doctorate which he did in 1972. He was then offered a teaching position at Rider University in Lawrenceville, New Jersey, where he finished his years of teaching. He went on to return to public education when he became a supervisor of science teaching in Manalapan, N.J.
Glenn enjoyed sports very much, both as a participant and as a spectator. In high school he played on the baseball team and began his lifelong devotion to golf and tennis. He even had a hole in one in the twilight on a course at Chetek, Wisconsin. He happily played both golf and tennis (doubles) this year. He also enjoyed pool and bridge and played both regularly at the local senior center. As a spectator, he was interested in watching the sports he played (he attended several U.S. Open tennis and golf tournaments) as well as University of Wisconsin football and basketball games. He was a fervent Green Bay Packers fan.
(written by Sue Palmer)
Additional Important Information
An interesting opportunity presented itself to him in 1967. He was invited to spend two years in Nigeria as part of a University of Wisconsin project sponsored by USAID to develop and improve the curriculum in the Nigerian Teacher Training Colleges. He would be teaching and writing science curriculum materials. He couldn't resist such an experience, so Glenn and Sue were off to Africa. In 1969 he returned to the University of Wisconsin to complete his doctorate which he did in 1972. He was then offered a teaching position at Rider University in Lawrenceville, New Jersey, where he finished his years of teaching. He went on to return to public education when he became a supervisor of science teaching in Manalapan, N.J.
Glenn enjoyed sports very much, both as a participant and as a spectator. In high school he played on the baseball team and began his lifelong devotion to golf and tennis. He even had a hole in one in the twilight on a course at Chetek, Wisconsin. He happily played both golf and tennis (doubles) this year. He also enjoyed pool and bridge and played both regularly at the local senior center. As a spectator, he was interested in watching the sports he played (he attended several U.S. Open tennis and golf tournaments) as well as University of Wisconsin football and basketball games. He was a fervent Green Bay Packers fan.
Glenn loved traveling to new and different parts of the world. He was given his first real traveling experience when the army sent him to Germany when he was 20. His interesting experiences there eventually lead him to places like China, England, Croatia, Italy, Portugal, the Soviet Union (including the Central Asian republics), China, Chile, Spain, Argentina, Mexico, Colombia, France, New Zealand, Slovenia, etc. These trips always included his very happy and equally travel-enamored wife.
His greatest traveling experience was the two years he and Sue spent in Nigeria from 1967 to 69. He didn't have to learn a new language because English was used in the schools (although many other languages were used locally). He loved the idea that he never knew what the day would bring. It could be that his horse escaped, that there was no running water, that the Emir paid a visit, or that a neighboring Peace Corps person killed a spitting cobra in his yard. He loved the work he was doing (teaching and writing) and learning about the people and their culture.
Glenn retired from his years in education in 1998. Sue joined him the next year. They decided to stay in Hightstown where they've lived in a friendly, supportive neighborhood with many kind and interesting people. This kept them in the area of friends from Glenn's days at Rider University and also friends from Hiltonia, the neighborhood of Trenton where they lived in the '70's and '80's. They also spent about two months each summer at their house in northern Wisconsin. One of the sources of pleasure and learning during retirement has been their participation in the Community Auditing Program at Princeton University. All this contributed to twenty-two years of happy retirement.(written by Sue Palmer)
Additional Important Information
- With Covid-19, a memorial event for Glenn is not possible at this time. When the situation allows, Sue's intention is to organize a memorial gathering for Glenn in New Jersey and also in Wisconsin. Logistics for these events will be published on this site.
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- In case you're interested, here are some charitable organizations that Glenn has supported.
- Africare. Glenn and Sue loved Africa after living and teaching school in Nigeria from 1967 to 1968. They have regularly supported www.africare.org, a leading non-governmental organization (NGO), whose mission is to improve the quality of life of the people in Africa.
- Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC). The SPLC (splcenter.org) is dedicated to fighting hate and bigotry and to seeking justice for the most vulnerable members of our society. Using litigation, education, and other forms of advocacy, the SPLC works toward the day when the ideals of equal justice and equal opportunity will be a reality.
- The Carter Center. The Carter Center (www.cartercenter.org) is guided by a fundamental commitment to human rights and the alleviation of human suffering, the Center seeks to prevent and resolve conflicts, enhance freedom and democracy, and improve health.
- The Trust for Public Land (TPL). The TPL (www.tpl.org) creates parks and protects land for people, ensuring healthy, livable communities for generations to come.
- Africare. Glenn and Sue loved Africa after living and teaching school in Nigeria from 1967 to 1968. They have regularly supported www.africare.org, a leading non-governmental organization (NGO), whose mission is to improve the quality of life of the people in Africa.
- This memorial website is intended to be a collaborative and living memorial to Glenn and enables anyone to share memories of Glenn in different ways. You have 3 ways to do it:
- Add a short "tribute" statement (see below on this page).
- Add a picture to the "Gallery" section of this web site. If you do add a picture, please add a description and if possible the year in which the picture was taken and it will get sequenced in approximate chronological order.
- If you have a longer story to tell about Glenn, add it to the "Stories" section of this web site.
Thanks for contributing to Glenn's memory!
- Add a short "tribute" statement (see below on this page).
Wow, never knew all this about Glenn. First met at the Ranney Reunion in Cromwell, Connecticut (Thos. Ranney had oldest gravestone in the Old Burying Ground, ca. 1670 as I recall). Glenn was active in organizing the event, as I recall. Not sure, but think he joined my father (Ralph) in restoring the Thos. Ranney gravestone from the new graveyard to the original site.
I strongly associate Thanksgiving with Glenn and Sue, who often generously invited international students from Princeton (including myself) to their home for a delicious festive meal and an afternoon/evening of fun. I cherish those memories, and am thankful for having met Glenn and Sue, and for all the moments spent together. Happy Thanksgiving.
Mrs. Palmer I'm so very sorry for your loss. You and Mr. Palmer saved my life all those years ago. You met me at Grant Elementary School and you found a lost and confused child. You presented me to Mr. Palmer and he introduced me to my first experience with an Apple MAC and he taught me the importance of hard work and an education. I have used everything he taught me and I can say today I’m an upstanding citizen contributing to society. His legacy lives within me, my children, grandchildren and he will never be forgotten. I can say with all my heart that both of you have made this a better world.
Glenn would have been 85 today. My thoughts are with Sue and all those who think of Glenn and miss him.
Although Glenn and Sue chose to move away from Hiltonia for a more convenient work commute, they never really abandoned us. It was always
a joy to welcome them back for our social activities.
Our friendship is lengthy, for they took me on-board the tennis bandwagon, and I played with the Sunday night women's group. Glenn was always the
spark for the annual "banquet."
We also had a North Woods connection; they, Wisconsin, I from the UP, Michigan. He and Sue had a wonderful life together.
Sue, you will continue to be my friend forever. Sending love, Pat
a joy to welcome them back for our social activities.
Our friendship is lengthy, for they took me on-board the tennis bandwagon, and I played with the Sunday night women's group. Glenn was always the
spark for the annual "banquet."
We also had a North Woods connection; they, Wisconsin, I from the UP, Michigan. He and Sue had a wonderful life together.
Sue, you will continue to be my friend forever. Sending love, Pat
I can only imagine how difficult it is to navigate life without your soulmate at your side. Even as I write this I feel like grieving for you but I also feel the grace You had of having Glen for so many wonderful healthy years and such a full life you two had together. I am going to choose to remember all the wonderful stories of your travels and studies. You two were such a great inspiration as a couple still holding hands and playing tennis together helping each other finish the sentence. I also could see that you stood on your own and hope that you can find peace in this next phase of you knowing he will always be at your side. Hope we can see you soon. Love Lori and Steve
We moved in across the street from Glenn and Sue in 2016 and our son, Gavin, was 5. Within the first few weeks of moving in, Glenn found out Gavin is a Green Bay Packers fan and without hesitation, Glenn went into their house and came out with one of his Packers hats to give to Gavin. Gavin absolutely adores Glenn and Sue and would run over to talk to them every time he saw them outside. Glenn was such a treasure with his warm smile and kind heart. He always had a story to tell. We will miss you, Glenn.
Love,
The Burgoyne Family
Love,
The Burgoyne Family
I met Mr. Palmer when I was about 12 years old (I am now 57) through Mrs. Palmer who was my Guidance Counselor when I was in the sixth grade. He has been part of my life ever since. He is the only reason I went to college (Rider) regularly checking in on me and always seemed to know when I was veering down the wrong path and stepped in to straighten me out :) He has always been a father figure to me and had so much impact on my life. I love him and will miss him dearly.
Mrs Palmer; I love you both and greatly appreciate the love, kindness and attention you've shown me through all of these years. Jerome
Mrs Palmer; I love you both and greatly appreciate the love, kindness and attention you've shown me through all of these years. Jerome
Sue,
What a beautiful tribute!! I thought I knew a lot about our dear neighbor, Glenn, until I read this. What a fascinating life, and obviously one well lived! No wonder he always walked with such a a big smile on his face. We will certainly miss seeing him around the neighborhood.
Love,
The Sharpe Family
What a beautiful tribute!! I thought I knew a lot about our dear neighbor, Glenn, until I read this. What a fascinating life, and obviously one well lived! No wonder he always walked with such a a big smile on his face. We will certainly miss seeing him around the neighborhood.
Love,
The Sharpe Family
Glenn quickly went from a distant relative to the first person I’d be asking about before going on our family trips. He brought the right energy for every occasion; never stealing the spotlight, but keeping the conversation alive and everyone included. He always brought something to the table, be it unique insights, fun/interesting travel stories, something new he learned shadowing classes at Princeton. You name it. There was never a dull moment when he was around.
Getting to know Glenn (and Sue) also got rid of any fears I had of getting older. All the downsides of age you hear about didn’t seem to affect them at all. He had all the wisdom and experience without even a hint of slowing down. He set a great example of what a life well lived looks like and it’s one we all are blessed to have been a part of.
Getting to know Glenn (and Sue) also got rid of any fears I had of getting older. All the downsides of age you hear about didn’t seem to affect them at all. He had all the wisdom and experience without even a hint of slowing down. He set a great example of what a life well lived looks like and it’s one we all are blessed to have been a part of.
Leave a Tribute
Recent Tributes
Wow, never knew all this about Glenn. First met at the Ranney Reunion in Cromwell, Connecticut (Thos. Ranney had oldest gravestone in the Old Burying Ground, ca. 1670 as I recall). Glenn was active in organizing the event, as I recall. Not sure, but think he joined my father (Ralph) in restoring the Thos. Ranney gravestone from the new graveyard to the original site.
I strongly associate Thanksgiving with Glenn and Sue, who often generously invited international students from Princeton (including myself) to their home for a delicious festive meal and an afternoon/evening of fun. I cherish those memories, and am thankful for having met Glenn and Sue, and for all the moments spent together. Happy Thanksgiving.
Mrs. Palmer I'm so very sorry for your loss. You and Mr. Palmer saved my life all those years ago. You met me at Grant Elementary School and you found a lost and confused child. You presented me to Mr. Palmer and he introduced me to my first experience with an Apple MAC and he taught me the importance of hard work and an education. I have used everything he taught me and I can say today I’m an upstanding citizen contributing to society. His legacy lives within me, my children, grandchildren and he will never be forgotten. I can say with all my heart that both of you have made this a better world.
Gallery
On the one year anniversary of Glenn's passing, thought I'd add a pic in remembrance. RIP Glenn.

Glenn Allen Palmer, with his trademark smile.

Frederick and Clara Palmer (Glenn's Grandparents) with their son, William (Glenn's father). 1913

Edgar and Ellen Ranney with their daughter, Elsie (Glenn's mother). 1917

Glenn's parents - Wiliam Allen Palmer & Elsie Faye Ranney were married June 16, 1920 in Wheeler Wisconsin.

Glenn (far right, born 1935) with his older brothers Wayne (left, born 1921) and Keith (2nd from left, born 1926) and his older sister Carol (2nd from right, born 1931).

Glenn and the smile you can always recognize.

Glenn's brother Wayne returned a war hero with 4 purple hearts, 2 sliver stars, 2 bronze stars & 2 presidential citations. When he left he was the most decorated man in the 1st Infantry.

Glenn's brother Wayne, Married 1946, Betty & had 3 children, Debbie (Born 1952), Sandy (Born 1954) and Craig (Born 1960).

Recent stories
I met Glenn and Sue in 1983 when I started dating my future husband, David Pierfy. Dave and Glenn met in 1972 when both started teaching at Rider College (now University.) Glenn always impressed me as being very intelligent, curious, caring and had a great sense of humor. When I picture him in my mind, it is with that devilish grin. I cherish the time Dave and I spent with Glenn and Sue over the years. Their mutual adoration and devotion was so evident. We got together for dinners, movies, theater shows, local festivals and tennis on Sunday nights. We spent many a New Years Eve together celebrating the start to another year. They were included in many of our family holiday celebrations through the years and were well known and loved by our children. Dave and I send our deepest sympathy to Sue for her (and our) loss and will always support her during this difficult time. I am grateful to have known Glenn for 37 years. He made a difference in people's lives during his lifetime. Glenn was one-of-a kind and will live on in my memories.
As was mentioned elsewhere on this website, Glenn was an avid tennis player and that's how we originally met, on a tennis court.
Glenn, along with Dave Pierfy and Bill Guthrie (I joined a year later), was a founding member of our original tennis group formed in 1983/84. We played on Sunday nights at the old Mercer County courts at Trenton airport, where we had to hone our lobbing skills to avoid hitting the numerous rafters holding that decrepit facility up. as well as the occasional raccoon peering down from those rafters. After that facility closed down, we continued at Mercer County park in their new tennis bubble (when doing things in a bubble didn't have anything to do with the corona virus pandemic). In those days it was just the four of us and we rarely missed a game!
At the same time, I played with another group during the week, and as some of the other players dropped out, I recruited Glenn and the other Sunday players to join our other group so that we all wound up playing two nights a week throughout the winter season.
Glenn was the oldest member of the group, but you would never know it by the way he played and moved around the court. He was a great tennis partner, but more importantly, he was a wonderful friend of long standing. Bonnie and I spent many enjoyable visits (and restaurant meals) with Glenn and Sue discussing many different topics of mutual interest, with travel being one of our favorites. We miss him, his friendship and his laughter. The annual tennis banquets, of which he was always an integral part, will never be the same without Glenn.
With love (and continuing friendship) to Sue.Tom and Bonnie
The Palmers were the host family for my wife Jing, when she arrived in Princeton for the first year as an international student. He (and Sue) has been more than that for over a decade to both of us. His life with passion and excitement, his love to Sue over half a century (and still there), his constant curiosity to embrace new things in life... all established what I know about Glenn over the years as a great person, a friend and a life idol. Maybe it is better in another language to put some words here that my vocabulary is so limited to express my appreciation and admiration to this gentleman.
Life is busy, and life is sophisticated. Most of the time we do things for today or tomorrow. Somehow we don't even have a chance to think about what we need and how do we get there. It really is my pleasure to get to know him because he showed me a way of great life could possibly be as an ordinary human being.
I am thankful for the time we spent together. But I don't miss Glenn. I don't have to. He is with me, as always.
Life is busy, and life is sophisticated. Most of the time we do things for today or tomorrow. Somehow we don't even have a chance to think about what we need and how do we get there. It really is my pleasure to get to know him because he showed me a way of great life could possibly be as an ordinary human being.
I am thankful for the time we spent together. But I don't miss Glenn. I don't have to. He is with me, as always.