Gloria J. Palmer

Gloria J. Palmer, age 82, of Madison, WI, formerly of Butternut, WI, passed away April 10, 2025 peacefully at her home.

Gloria was born on February 24, 1943, in Park Falls, WI, to parents Willard and Irene (Kelnhofer) Wirsing. She was raised in Butternut and graduated from Park Falls High School. She later earned her degree from UW-Stout.

In 1965, Gloria began her career as a vocational home economics teacher at Algoma Public Schools. After starting a family, she paused her professional life to raise her children. She later returned to the workforce as a secretary at the Extension Forage Management Office at UW–Madison.

On September 23, 1967, she married Roger Palmer in San Antonio, TX. Together they raised three children.

Gloria was a woman of many talents and passions. She volunteered for many years at the World Dairy Expo. She lovingly donated hand-knit baby hats, blankets, and sweaters to hospitals and was an avid hand quilter. She also had a deep appreciation for antiques and unique treasures. Above all, her favorite place was the family farm, where she enjoyed giving tours on the ranger, mowing the lawn, and caring for the cows.

She is survived by her daughters, Jonell Palmer of Menomonie, WI, and Jennifer (Scott) Spear of Ringle, WI; grandchildren, William Kolste, Casey Kolste, Marquetta Palmer, Christopher Sharpley, Nicholas Sharpley, and Sydney Spear; nieces, Becky Dierkes and Lori Helke; along with many other beloved family members and friends.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Roger W. Palmer; her parents; her son, William Palmer; and her sister, Judy Senoracki.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Sunday, May 18, 2025, at Olson Funeral Home in Menomonie, WI, with Pastor Tom McKittrick officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

Burial will follow at Forest Hill Cemetery in the Town of Stanton, Dunn County, WI. After the burial, a Celebration of Life will be held at 1:00p.m. at Dean & Sue’s Bar & Grill in Menomonie, WI.

To share a memory, please visit obituaries at www.olsonfuneral.com