Patti Jean Palmer

In loving memory of Patti Jean Palmer, who peacefully passed away on December 22, 2025, at the age of 74. Patti spent her final moments surrounded by the warmth of her family, in the comforting familiarity of her home in Minneapolis, Minnesota, a city that has always held a special place in her heart. Born on December 9, 1951, in the vibrant city of Minneapolis, Patti was the beloved daughter of Eva Jean Newman and Raymond Monroe Palmer. She was also cherished by her stepfather, Robert Harold Soper, who played a significant role in her upbringing. Patti's childhood was filled with laughter and love, setting the stage for a life characterized by boundless joy and kindness. Patti's academic journey began at Rancho Alamitos High School in Garden Grove, where she graduated with a diploma adorned not just with academic achievements but also with the lasting friendships she formed there. Known for her involvement with the drama club and the school newspaper, Patti's zest for life began to shine early on. She furthered her education at Rancho Santiago College, where she nurtured her love for learning and creativity. In 1977, Patti married Steve Leonard, embarking on a journey of love and companionship. Though their paths later diverged, their time together was a chapter in her life filled with growth and shared experiences. For the past 34 years, Patti found companionship and unwavering support in her partner, Leon Dudevoir, with whom she shared a deep and abiding love. Patti's career was spent primarily in the banking industry, where she worked diligently in the loan departments of several banks. Her colleagues remember her as a dedicated professional with a knack for brightening the workspace with her quick wit and infectious sense of humor. Her ability to see the good in every situation endeared her to everyone she met. Beyond her professional life, Patti found immense joy in the simple pleasures. She was an avid traveler with a particular fondness for Europe, where each journey brought new stories and cherished memories. Her hobbies included knitting, reading, and doing puzzles—pastimes that reflected her patience and love for the intricacies of life. Patti's family was her world. She was a devoted mother to her children, Troy Leonard, Misty Giffin, Nicole Dudevoir, and Tim Dudevoir, who carry forward her legacy of compassion and resilience. Her seven grandchildren—Natalie Papandrea, Alexander Papandrea, Amy Brown, Barrett Brown, Carlin Dudevoir, Henry Dudevoir, and Maevyn Dudevoir—were the light of her life, and she took immense pride in their accomplishments. Patti's love extended to her great-grandson, Levi Brown, whose presence brought her immense joy. Patti is also survived by her cherished sister, Bonnie Hawes, and a loving extended family, as well as countless friends who became family over the years. Each of these relationships was a testament to her generous spirit and her ability to touch the lives of those around her in profound ways. As we celebrate Patti's life, we remember her as a beacon of light and laughter, a woman who embraced every moment and found joy in the simplest of things. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of those she loved and those who loved her. Patti Jean Palmer will be dearly missed, but her spirit will continue to inspire us all. A memorial service to honor Patti's extraordinary life will be held at a later date, where family and friends are invited to gather and share in the beautiful memories she left behind. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in her memory to a charity of your choice, reflecting Patti's generous and compassionate spirit.