Robert Ray Palmer

Wasilla resident Robert Ray Palmer, 56, died May 8, 2013.

He was born Nov. 10, 1956, in Denver, Colo., to the late Judith Thompson and Paul Palmer.

He graduated from West High School in 1974. He was a certified mechanic for 40 years and a business owner for 10 years. He married his wife, Vicky Palmer, in 1991, and they lived together in Wasilla.

Surviving are their two children, Maria Harvey of Birchwood and Kristina Blair of Wasilla; grandchildren, Connor Ray Blair and Hazel Marie Blair; sisters, Cindy Hess of Colorado and Tanya Hoffnagle of Alaska; and brother, Tim Palmer of Alaska.

Robert moved to Alaska in 1972 and graduated from West High School in 1974. While he was in school he worked with his dad at The Bug House on Muldoon. He moved to Wasilla in 1974 after graduation and started working for K M Import Car Service, which he later purchased in 1999. He sold the property, closed the business and retired in 2009.

Robert was always willing to help anyone that came though his business no matter the situation. Even if that fix was a piece of tape covering the check engine light so you couldn’t see it anymore. He loved camping, fishing, movies and racing. He was an amazing father who took pride in his family and loved to take his kids camping. His children will always hold the memories of camping in their 1971 VW bus as kids growing up so dear to their hearts. He was a great husband and best friend to his wife for almost half their lives. He will be truly missed and loved forever.

A celebration of life is planned at his home with his family and friends at 4 p.m., June 22.