Joseph John Palmer, 79, passed away in New Port Richey, Florida, on September 19, 2024. Born on August 8, 1945, in Geneva, New York, Joe was a standout athlete in his youth, frequently appearing in the sports pages of the Geneva Times. After graduating from Geneva High School in 1964, he attended Cobleskill College. He married Jane Lindsay, the love of his life, on July 16, 1966, at St. Peter’s Church in Geneva. Throughout his career in sales he held various positions of increasing responsibility in Rochester and Syracuse.

Joe Palmer’s true calling came in his 30s and 40s when he devoted himself to the youth of Geneva. He played a pivotal role in transforming the Geneva Little League into a thriving program that served more than 500 children each season. Under his leadership, the league saw immense growth, with dozens of teams and volunteers who ensured that no child was turned away, regardless of his or her ability to play or pay. His vision included acquiring land and building additional fields, which he ensured would be preserved for the future generations of Geneva.

A warm, sociable man, Joe was known for his friendliness and selflessness, always putting his children’s needs before his own. He was predeceased by his wives Jane and Margaret, his parents Howard and Elizabeth, one brother, and five sisters. He is survived by his children, Michael (Cassandra) of Winterport, Maine; William of Jacksonville, Florida; Karen Prendergast (Christopher) of Melbourne, Florida; and Gregory (Katharina) of Tampa, Florida. He also leaves behind his grandchildren Sarah, Taylor, Matthew, Ryan, Rachel, Lindsay, Emily, and Amelia, and his sisters June and Joyce. A proud member of the Geneva- Ark Lodge Number 33, Joe’s legacy lives on through his contributions to the Geneva Little League. “Joe Bam” will be missed by all that knew and loved him. He was a unique and special man, and the world is a better place for having had him in it.