Wayne W. Palmer, Sr., age 85, of Rutland, MA, died peacefully at home on December 27, 2024. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Joan S. (Beeso) Palmer; his sons, Wayne W. Jr., Palmer of Paxton and Sean L. (Heather) Palmer of Gardner; his sister Mona L. (John) Grande of Shrewsbury; his grandchildren, Stephanie, Corrinne, Sarah, Jacob, and Samantha; and his great-grandchildren, Jeffrey and Kayleigh.

Wayne was born in Spencer, MA in 1939 to Annette (Landroche) and Lewis Palmer. He grew up with a love of nature, the outdoors and enjoyed winter sports. Being an accomplished ice skater in his youth, he later in life took up skiing into his early 70s. He enjoyed woodworking, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, raising high-flyer and tumbler pigeons, and took great pride in working in his yard and extensive vegetable garden. His greatest joy came from spending time with his family, taking yearly vacations with them in New Hampshire and Maine. Wayne was an arborist employed by Brewer Tree Company starting in his teens and continued for 28 years. After leaving Brewer Tree, Wayne became employed by the Town of Rutland DPW for 18 years where he initially ran the landfill until its closing. He then continued as a heavy equipment operator, retiring in 2003. After retirement, Wayne continued to plow for the town part time for several years, with the remainder of his time spent with his loving wife Joan, pursuing his hobbies, and traveling with family. He will be greatly missed!

Calling hours will be held Friday, January 10, 2025, from 4:00-7:00pm at Miles Funeral Home in Holden. Funeral services and interment will be held privately for his family.