Fred Palmer Passes

Fred Edwin Palmer, 78, of Ashland, Oregon, passed away at his home, Friday, May 16, 2008.

Fred was born October 29, 1929, in Kansas City, to parents Fred and Francis Palmer. He started playing the violin as a child and developed a love of music. Fred went to University of Kansas where he played four years with their symphony orchestra. Graduating with music honors in 1952, Fred joined the U. S. Navy. He rose to the rank of full Lieutenant and saw action in Korea before leaving the Navy in 1959 to pursue a career in music.

Fred obtained his Masters from San Jose State University, and his PhD of Music from Iowa State University. He moved to Ashland in 1965 to join the music faculty of SOC.

Dr. Palmer founded the Rogue Valley Symphony in 1967 and served as its first conductor for seven years. He later returned to play first chair for several more years. In addition to performance arts, Dr. Palmer enjoyed composing music and teaching musical theory. Retiring in 1988, Fred enjoyed fishing, flying, furniture making, and gardening.

He is survived by his wife, Chris Scheu, and by her children, Jimmy, Johnny, and Kim; by his son, Berkley; and by his sister Ruth and brothers Bob and Jack. The family will be holding a private remembrance.

Donations in Fred’s name may be made to the Rogue Valley Symphony’s “Connecting with Classics” program, 1250 Siskiyou Blvd, Ashland, OR 97520.

From The Medford Mail Tribune, May 22, 2008