WSO Mourns Passing of Former Board Member Dick Palmer

STATEMENT FROM THE WARREN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Memorializing Richard L. “Dick” Palmer

The Warren Symphony Orchestra Board of Directors mourns the passing of our dear friend, colleague, and longtime champion, Richard L. “Dick” Palmer, who entered eternal rest on November 27, 2025, at the age of 92. Dick’s impact on the Warren Symphony, and on the cultural life of our community, was profound, enduring, and immeasurable.

For 25 years, Dick served on the Warren Symphony Orchestra Board of Directors with exceptional dedication. His leadership as President, Vice President, Past President, and Treasurer, roles he held multiple times, helped guide the orchestra through periods of growth, transition, and renewed artistic vision. Dick understood the essential role that music and the performing arts play in enriching a community, and he worked tirelessly to ensure that the Warren Symphony remained a source of inspiration, education, and cultural pride for the entire region.

A steadfast advocate for the arts, Dick approached every board discussion and every volunteer effort with wisdom, integrity, and enthusiasm. He believed deeply in the power of music to strengthen communities and elevate the human spirit. His support extended far beyond leadership meetings.  He was present at concerts, engaged with patrons, and continually championed the importance of sustaining a strong symphonic tradition in Warren.

Dick’s commitment to service was woven throughout his life. In addition to his contributions to the Warren Symphony, he spent decades volunteering across the City of Warren - on the Warren Consolidated School Board, the Library Commission, the Cultural Commission, and the Friends of the Warren Library. He was a U.S. Army veteran, a proud graduate of the University of Detroit, and a devoted member of several local parishes. His lifetime of service reflected a deep love for community, family, faith, and country.

The Warren Symphony Orchestra is stronger today because of Dick Palmer. His steady leadership, generous spirit, and unwavering passion for the arts will forever be part of our history. Though his presence will be deeply missed, his legacy will continue to resonate in every performance and in every young musician inspired by the symphony he helped to sustain.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to his beloved wife Genie, his children and grandchildren, and all who shared in his remarkable life.

May his memory be a beautiful and lasting symphony of service, love, and dedication.