Palmer A. Schmidt of Grafton, died Friday, May 13, 2016 at the age of 86 surrounded by his family. Palmer was born on March 13, 1930 in Newburg, WI the son of the late Erwin and Minnie (Nee Utecht) Schmidt. Palmer spent on year in the United States Army and then three years in the reserves. Upon returning home, Palmer worked as a foreman sand caster for 45 years at Rostad Aluminum. Palmer was a founding member of Our Savior Lutheran Church in Grafton. His passions included carpentry in which he made the original alter at Our Savior Lutheran Church. He also enjoyed lawn care as well as making wooden toys, such as trains, cars and marble games.Palmer is survived by his loving wife Jo-Anne (nee Koller-Rathke); Loving Father of Richard (Lori) Rathke, Daniel (Laurie) Rathke, Lori (Shawn) Best and Todd (Kristina) Schmidt; Devoted Grandfather to Jessica Glab, Katie Best, Kaily Rathke, Andrew Best, Samuel Rathke, Michael Rathke, Scott Rathke, Elizabeth Schmidt; and Great-Grandfather to Aryah and Max Glab; Dear brother of Orville Schmidt, Louvella (Rev. Ronald) Schultz; and brother-in-law of Herman Kuether. Further survived by other relatives and many friends. Palmer was preceded in death by grandson Nicholas Rathke; sisters: Audrey (John) Schlehlein, Amy Kuether and sister-in-law Geraldine Schmidt.
Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, May 18, 2016 – 2:00 PM at Our Savior Lutheran Church 1332 Arrowhead Dr. Grafton. Visitation will be at the church on Wednesday from 12 Noon – 1:45 PM. Memorials to Our Savior Lutheran Church appreciated.