Early Life and Ordination

Bill was born in Hawkesbury, Ontario on August 12, 1915. He attended Knox College, graduated and was ordained as minister in 1946.

Ministry and Pastoral Charges

He served the following pastoral charges (all in Ontario) as an ordained minister; Englehart and Tomstown; Roxborough Park, Hamilton; Strathcona, Burlington; Kirkwall-Sheffield; First, St. David's and Scotlea, St. Catharines; Parkwood, Ottawa; and Shoal Lake and reserves. Bill retired in October 1987.

Church Leadership and Contributions

Bill had a deep sense of ministry and commitment and dedication in being a servant of the Lord Jesus Christ and in proclaiming the gospel. Bill's love of writing led him to write church school lessons for the Presbyterian Church in 1954 and 1955. Bill was active in the courts of the church. He served as moderator of the Presbytery of Hamilton three times. He served as clerk of the Synod of Hamilton-London now known as the Synod of Southwestern Ontario. With Mel Bailey, he wrote a history of the Presbytery of Hamilton. He served on the history committee of the Synod of Manitoba and Northwestern Ontario. Throughout his ministry, Bill was active in providing leadership at many church camps.

Faith and Personal Conviction

Bill's life was a characterized by the first question and answer of the Shorter Catechism, which he loved and knew as well. That first question is "What is the chief end of man?" and the answer is "Man's chief end is to glorify God and to enjoy him forever."

Passing and Memorial

Bill passed away peacefully at home on Monday, January 7, 2002, at the age of 86 years. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Florence (Rev. Florence Palmer); daughter Evelyn, husband Mike, grandchildren Angela, Jennifer and Mikey; daughter Karen, husband Mike, grandson Jordan; sister Enid; numerous nieces and nephews.

A memorial service in celebration of the life of The Rev. William (Bill) Kennedy Palmer was held at St. John's Presbyterian Church, Winnipeg, on Thursday, January 10 (2002).

Adapted from memorial record in the Acts & Proceedings of the 128th General Assembly of the PCC, 2002