Obituary of Jason Michael Palmer

Jason Michael Palmer, 43, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by friends and family at 5:15 on the evening of June 11, 2017 after a two-year battle with ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) or Lou Gehrig's disease. Jason was born on October 2, 1973 in Louisville, Kentucky to his late mother, Maureen Jean (Aslett), and father, Jerry Morris Palmer. Jason had a penchant for life, and a passion for serving others. He was tireless in his efforts to encourage, educate, and ease others' burdens. He would not seek the limelight, but was present for anyone in need. He was especially encouraged in teaching God's word, or anything to do with paramedicine. His patience and kindness radiated, as he acknowledged everyone in his presence, frequently waving at strangers as he passed them on the road. Jason was a paramedic, and started his career in the EMS community in 1996. Prior to that, he was a cadet in EMS. During his career, he was also a preceptor, cadet advisor, and a supervisor. He breathed paramedicine, and he spent a multitude of hours training and teaching others. Jason could frequently be found at the EMS station, missing a meal or sleep, to help another understand paramedicine, or simply helping someone with a problem. He would spend as much time as needed without complaint. Jason believed in loving, learning, and living. He believed that love was not a feeling, but a decision; not just a noun, but a verb as well; and not something only to be spoken of, but constantly shown. Jason's core passions were his commitment to Jesus Christ, and his love for people, as he never met a stranger. His love for Jesus, his wife, and others in his life could never be doubted. He enjoyed reading the Bible and talking to others about the love and salvation of Jesus Christ. He lived his faith by example. He was a member of the Brooks Avenue Church of Christ. Jason could be described as gentle, laid back, optimistic, humorous, creative, fun-loving, contemplative, with a big-hearted soul. He loved life and lived every day to the fullest, even as his illness progressed. His love and faith never flickered. Jason enjoyed spending time outdoors — at the beach, mountains, fishing, hunting, hiking, gardening, sitting around the fire pit talking about the day's events, and spending time with his dogs. He also loved woodworking, cooking elaborate meals, movies, all genres of music, and working on projects, such as building a kayak. After his ALS diagnosis, we made one last trip to the ocean so Jason could dip his toes in the water and take in the salty air. Jason is survived by his loving wife and best friend, Lauren Celeste (Stephens) Palmer, his dear father, Jerry Morris Palmer (Dianne Palmer), and his beloved Weimaraner, Zoey. He is also survived by his brother, Joshua Mark Palmer; grandfather, Harry Aslett; uncle, John Aslett; and numerous cousins, nephews, and a niece. He was preceded in death by his mother, Maureen Jean (Aslett); his paternal grandfather, Thomas Joshua Palmer; his paternal grandmother, Frances Martha (Allen); and his maternal grandmother, Joan (Cunningham).