Leslie Wayne 'Les' Palmer, age 70, passed away November 9, 2013, at his home near Custer, SD.

Les was born May 2, 1943, at Miller, SD, to Wesley and Mae (Arbogast) Palmer. He graduated from Custer High School in 1962. He joined the Army National Guard in 1964 and was commissioned in 1967 as 2nd Lieutenant. Les married Donna Druyvestein on May 9, 1964 in Custer. When Les retired from the SD DOT, Donna and Les moved to Douglas, WY, to enjoy watching two of his grandkids excel in sports. He was a proud grandpa when his grandson, Danny, caught the last pass in the end zone when Douglas won the 3A Football championship. While he enjoyed all of Danny's football games, this one was really special. Les also enjoyed watching Shelby play softball, basketball and golf. In 2009, the Palmers returned to Custer to watch Ally in volleyball, basketball and his favorite, track. Les was also able to attend some of the Wyoming celebrations to see Alan Flatt march in the Wyoming All State Marching Band.

Les' family was very important to him taking them as well as anyone else who wanted to go hunting, fishing, and camping. It was very important to him that he taught the traits and safety of outdoor recreation.

Les is survived by his wife, Donna; son, Troy (Shari) Palmer of Douglas, WY; daughter, Suzanne Palmer of Custer; four grandchildren, Danny (Tiffany) Palmer of Casper, WY; Shelby Palmer of Douglas, WY; Ally Hass of Custer; Alan Flatt of Buffalo, WY; brother, Chuck (Bernie) Palmer of Laramie, WY; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Les was preceded in death by his parents, four sisters and one brother.

Memorial services will be held at 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, November 13, 2013, at the United Methodist Church in Pringle, SD.

Memorials in Les' name may be sent to the Hands of Compassion House, PO Box 7266, Rochester, MN 55903 or the Shriners Children Travel Fund, 4091 Sturgis Road, Rapid City, SD 57702.