Duane Vaughn Palmer

Duane grew up in Iowa and began working alongside his family on the farm at age 9. By 17 he had entered military service in the U.S. Army. His service included many duty stations, including notable time spent in the Pacific Islands, time spent closing out the U.S.'s presence at the Panama Canal, and also closing The Presidio in San Francisco, California. He was on active duty for over 30 years as a mechanic, a maintainer, and an ordinance officer. True to his farm-boy roots, he enjoyed a strong work ethic and getting his hands dirty, whether it was rebuilding cars, refinishing furniture, or putting plants in the earth. He finished his Bachelor's Degree through Upper Iowa State University while in his fifties, and he was an avid reader. Duane was a quiet man who saw the humor in most things, and he will be missed by those who know and love him. He is survived by his loving wife Susan Keen, children Jonathan Keen and his wife Debbie, Jessica Keen, Jackie Palmer, Teresa Veihl, grandchildren Alex, Spencer, Stella and Jack Keen, Ariel Vaughn and Aribella Marilyn Keen, Erica and Melissa Veihl, Richard and Shana Palmer, sister Elaine Baber and many nieces, nephews and friends. A graveside service to honor and celebrate Duane's life will be held Friday, June 21, 2013 at 9:30 AM at the Dallas Ft. Worth National Cemetery, Dallas, Texas.