Philip Bruce Palmer, 80, of Irvine, CA, went home to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on January 29, 2026. His death was sudden and unexpected. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Barbara (Barthel) Palmer, and the five children they created together: Liesl Arceneaux (Chad), Bryn Mathison (Jim), Malaika Johnston (Matt), Bryce Palmer, and Brianne Cooper (Jordan). In addition, already missing their beloved "Papa," are 14 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild: Madyson (Brian Roger), Macey, Anastasia/Tacy, Lauren, Minley, Metchor, Brayden, Quinn, Luke, Mills, Baylee, Bella, Everlyse, Berlyn and Piper.

Phil was a wonderful, wise, generous man, easy to love not only by his wife, but by all who knew him. He was a man of strong integrity, deep faith, and abundant optimism. After giving his life to Jesus at 16, he began daily scripture reading and journaling, filling volumes of notebooks, but in the process, filling his heart with thanksgiving for the assurance that because of God's grace, he would spend eternity with his Savior. Phil lived by the words of Philippians 4:6-7: "Be anxious about nothing, but in everything, with thanksgiving, through prayer and petition, let your requests be known to God, and the peace of God will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus."

After retiring from 30 years as a math and computer teacher, he volunteered his time across many different opportunities, the longest being Young Life, the most recent being Mariners Church in Irvine, CA, and the most unique being a 2+ year service as a missionary in Niger in Africa.

Phil's "happy place" was his beloved "farm" property in northern Washington, which framed his family history beginning over 90 years ago. Apple trees, canoeing, kayaking, and enjoying the beauty of God's creative presence in each unique sunset and sunrise brought him immense joy. Phil and Barb fully believed their lives were lived "in the goodness of God."

A celebration of Phil's life will be held on Monday, March 23, 2026 in the chapel of Mariners Church, 5001 Newport Coast Drive, Irvine, CA. A light lunch will follow.

If you wish to honor Phil with a donation to Young Life campships, click on the link below. Thank you for your generosity. https://giving.younglife.org/s/PhilipPalmer

If you are unable to attend the celebration in person, you can watch the live-stream.
Time: Mar 23, 2026 10:45 AM PDT
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https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81583569997?pwd=dBNZubEItjaecbNuxESOhvWATsVlBU.1

Meeting ID: 815 8356 9997
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