Retiring teacher, coach urges Colony grads to ‘find their 68’
By Jeremiah Bartz Frontiersman.com A football coach using a hockey reference as the centerpiece for his keynote address may
June 8, 1940 - March 21, 2025
It is with profound sadness and deep respect that we announce the passing of Romulus (Romie) Joseph Deschamps, III beloved family member, long-time resident of Palmer, AK, and a dedicated pharmacist whom passed away on March 21, 2025, at the age of 84 surrounded by family. A remarkable and charming individual, Romie, was born June 8, 1940 in Missoula, MT and lived a life of adventure, passion, purpose, and dedication. In his youth, he worked on his uncles' ranches in the summer and hunted deer in the fall. He put himself through school fighting wildfires in Alaska and the Pacific Northwest as a Smoke Jumper with the US Forest Service. Romie became a respected pharmacist, receiving the Bowl of Hygeia Award for his exceptional service and kindness. He is remembered as being humorous and artistic, his service to the community, his passion for the arts, and his deep devotion to his family and left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing them. He was actively involved in various community organizations including the local Rotarian club, American Cancer Society and Federal Disaster Assistance Medical team. He is survived by his wife Patricia (Cavanaugh) Deschamps; children Marci Deschamps, Romie Deschamps, IV, Wendi Deschamps, Randy Deschamps, Staci Deschamps Griffin, and Noelle Deschamps; 9 grandchildren; and siblings, Rose Marie Green, Michael Deschamps, Bernedette Sivertsen, Marguerite Ward and Jim Michaelis. He was preceded in death by his parents Estella (Piero) Deschamps and Romulus Deschamps, II. A memorial service will be held on April 25th at noon at St. Michaels Catholic Church followed up with a potluck at Government Peak Recreation Area at 4 to 8 p.m. In Lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Palmer Arts Council and mention the teenager Art for Fun program.
