Gregory Arnold Palmer
Gregory Arnold Palmer passed away on July 7, 2024, at the age of 81 in Los Osos, California. Born on December 8, 1942, Greg lived a full and vibrant life marked by his many interests and accomplishments.
A true Renaissance man, Greg was an accomplished pilot, an avid scuba diver certified by Jacques Cousteau, and a skilled skier on both water and snow. He was a trumpet player with a profound love for jazz, and a gifted athlete who set multiple records while at Pasadena High School. After graduation (PHS ‘60) he attended USC, then Woodbury University where he discovered a passion for business that would last his career.
Greg carried a gregarious sense of humor and generosity throughout his life that earned him friends wherever he roamed. He proudly served in the U.S. Marine Corps, a testament to his dedication and resilience. His service to the nation remained a source of pride, as did his deep appreciation for all who served. Greg was a builder. In his 20s he built a 40-foot trimaran he frequently sailed around the Channel Islands. Then after a decade as a Santa Barbara real estate broker, he built his first property, a fourplex in Los Osos. That launched a prolific career spanning three decades as a highly sought-after general contractor, leaving a legacy of beautiful commercial and residential properties across California and Aspen, Colorado.
Greg is survived by his devoted wife, Ginny, and son, Nathaniel Palmer, along with Nathaniel’s wife, Heather. He was a cherished grandpa to Nathaniel and Amelia. His brothers Stan (Marsha), Tony (Diane), and Steven (Nanci), cousins Geoff Palmer (Leslie), Bill Hurst (Mary), Pamela Wells (Neil), numerous nieces and nephews, and sister-in-law Barbra Valentine also survive him. Greg was preceded in death by his beloved son Eric Palmer and daughter Jennifer Palmer, parents Frank and Virginia Palmer, niece Courtney Palmer, cousins Molly and Cort Palmer (Dianne), Scott Hurst (Joanna) and many beloved furry friends.
A private family graveside service will be held to honor Greg’s life. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to your favorite charity in memory of Gregory Arnold Palmer, a man who truly lived life to the fullest.