After a courageous battle against injuries sustained in a fall, our son, brother, cousin and friend, Adam Palmer, succumbed to a traumatic brain injury after suffering two fatal strokes on Monday morning. Adam peacefully went to join his brother, Nicholas, in heaven as an angel to watch over those of us left behind.

Adam is the beloved son of Beverly Palmer-O'Dea (David O'Dea) and David Palmer (Patricia). He leaves behind two grandparents, countless aunts, uncles, cousins and friends most of which were with him in his final hours.

We called Adam "No. 1," because he was number one in our lives. Everyone who knew Adam understood his wit, sense of humor, and profound love for those who were in his life. Adam deeply touched the lives of many, maintaining friends from pre-school through adulthood. Our lives are richer from knowing Adam. His love of animals, desire to help people in need, and genuine caring for all shaped him to be the person he was – someone with an enormous heart, who strived to do good by all, and someone who could always be counted on, giving 110% of himself.

Few know that Adam had planned to go back to school in the fall, having already begun the process to gain his AutoCAD Certification for architectural blueprinting. He was looking forward to adding that skill to his resume, and we know he would have been great at it in his future career. During Adam's career, he worked with many wonderful people, who during his time immediately after the injury, he talked about in his subconscious state: Peter, Lampy, Swenson, John, Susie…….he recounted many stories (some totally inappropriate!). He also spoke of his friends: Matt, Steve, Brent, Tess, Kyle, Wes, Samantha, Alexis, and Randy, among others.

An avid gamer, in his more sedated times, he played a game on a screen and keyboard that only he could see, although the rest of us could clearly hear what was going on as he continued to talk through the game, communicating with his fellow gamers. Adam loved playing baseball, and working his upper body. The fact that he also ran kept him in good physical strength, and the doctors felt that was what had led to Adam's very quick recovery until the morning of the strokes. He was responsive after his brain surgery, told his wonderful nurses his name, gave them thumbs up signs, and recognized his family that was there by his side the entire time.

The family would like to extend our sincere thanks to the team at Tacoma General's Neuro ICU section. We thank you for giving us the final days with Adam, and the chance to say our goodbyes.

Adam would not have wanted a formal affair for his goodbye to those of us remaining, and would be embarrassed by the attention. His family and friends have tried to plan an event that is fitting. As Adam loved football, and always pushed the "Blue Friday" theme wherever he was, the theme for Adam's farewell will be that of a Sunday afternoon football game. Adam loved the Hawks and Green Bay (thanks to Peter).

We also know that Adam would not have wanted a long, drawn-out mass, so services will be short, followed by a graveside service, and a celebration of life "tailgate" reception to follow. Family and friends are encouraged to wear their favorite football attire, even if you cannot attend the services, in remembrance of him on Sunday. Friends are asked and encouraged to print out and bring with them their favorite "Adam" picture to share on poster boards, as well as any Adam stories. Viewing will take place on Saturday, November 11th from 10 – 6 at Mt. View.

Our hearts are broken, but we know Adam touched many, many lives in such positive ways. His family truly treasures all of the outpouring of response from his friends. In this difficult time, as Adam would have done for you, you are now stepping in and helping heal those left behind.

We love you so much Adam. You will forever be in the hearts of all who knew you.