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
February 15, 1993 - May 23, 2025
In Loving Memory of Ryan Andrew Palmer, age 32, a cherished son, loving father, loyal friend, and lifelong Alaskan, who passed away peacefully on May 23, 2025, due to complications from diabetes. His passing marks the end of a life filled with kindness, adventure, and an unwavering spirit of generosity.
Born in Palmer and raised in Wasilla, Alaska, Ryan embraced every aspect of his home state. His family and community shaped Ryan into the warm and approachable person countless people were fortunate enough to know. A skilled mechanic and devoted hobbyist, Ryan delighted in the craft of building, fixing, and creating, turning his talents into a source of joy and service for those around him.
Ryan's remarkable ability to connect with others made him a friend to everyone he encountered. His infectious energy and interest in mechanics, rodeo, and motorcycle building & riding created opportunities for Ryan to leave a lasting mark on many lives. He had a gift for making people laugh and was a joy to everyone who knew him. His many adventures, and even sometimes "misadventures" made him a man of great physical and mental strength. He was the embodiment of grit and perseverance, as he overcame many physical and emotional trials. Even when life was difficult for him, Ryan always remained positive and found a way to move forward.
Ryan will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on through his daughter Raelynn, age 5, whom he loved and cherished. He is survived by his mother, Cassandra Cutler (Wayne), brother Adam Palmer, stepsisters Inessa, Ava and Goldie Cutler, maternal grandmother Glenda Ledford (mayor of Wasilla), Uncles Shawn Fuller, Bryan Murrin (Tammy), Thomas Ledford (Carla), and cousins Kamarae (Andrew), Kensley (Hunter), Maddie, Thomas, Abbie, and Riston. Paternal Grandparents, Jim and Shirly Novak, Aunts Shari Jensen, Terri Fischer (Brian), Beverley Novak and Laura Novak.
Ryan was preceded in death by his father, Christopher Palmer (1971-2003), whose memory Ryan carried with him throughout his life.
Please join us in the celebration of Ryan's life at Matanuska View (Horse Haven Ranch) 2930 Bodenburg Loop, Palmer on July 19th, at 2 p.m. We are planning a potluck after the service and would welcome any finger food dishes you would like to share. In Lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to support Ryans daughter's educational fund at Global Credit Union, Acct#: 5370012. Please make checks payable to Global Credit Union.