MASON CITY — Darlene “Punkie” Palmer, a strong-willed Mason City woman remembered for her independence, devotion to family, love of gardening and years of work connected to North Iowa schools, has died at age 81.
Palmer passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 24, 2026, at the IOOF Home in Mason City, surrounded by her children and grandchildren.
An open-house celebration of life will be held from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday, June 5, 2026, at Major Erickson Funeral Home in Mason City. Inurnment has taken place at Westside Cemetery in Marble Rock.
Darlene Ann Junker Palmer was born on October 27, 1944, to Tony and Grace Junker. She was raised in Greene, Iowa, and later lived in the Marble Rock area. She worked in food service at North Iowa Area Community College and later returned to NIACC as a student, earning a business degree before becoming a nutrition specialist for area schools.
Those who knew Darlene remember a woman who worked hard, stood on her own two feet and did what needed to be done for her family. That determination helped shape the lives of her three sons and later became part of the example passed down to her grandchildren.
Away from work, Darlene enjoyed baking, cooking and caring for neighborhood cats. She was also a lifelong gardener who loved tending flowers, vegetables and plants for herself and others. Above all, her family said she treasured time with her grandchildren, who brought great joy to her life.
She is survived by her children, Brian Palmer, Rick and Billie Jo Palmer, and Lyle and Julie Palmer; grandchildren Shaleah Montano, Emily Palmer, Eric Palmer, Jason Johnson and Jamie Johnson; 12 great-grandchildren; and many other relatives and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Tony and Grace Junker; siblings Fred “Sonny” Junker, Grace “Tootie” Debner, Bob Junker and Karen Soike; and nephew Wayne Junker.
Major Erickson Funeral Home is handling arrangements. To read more and see the full obituary, please click here.
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