Leo Ralph Palmateer

Leo R. Palmateer, age 97 1/2, passed away peacefully at his home in Mesa, AZ on April 4, 2024. He leaves behind his wife of 67 years, Betty (Smith) Palmateer, as well as four children: Sandy Rocha (Alex) of Colorado; LeeAnn Miller of Mesa; Debra Wright (Jerry) of Payson; and Doug Palmateer (Dolores) of Maricopa. He is also survived by four grandchildren: Michael Lovallo (Adam) of Oro Valley; Carey Kwant of Las Vegas, NV; Devin Palmateer (Melissa) of Gilbert; and Amber LeBlanc (Luke) of Gilbert, and 7 great-grandchildren (Skye, Xen, Kane, Max, Leo A., Lily, and Riggs). He was pre-deceased by his father Forrest R. Palmateer; mother June (Payne) Palmateer; two sisters-Jean Evans and Judy Gauthier; and his brother Marvin Palmateer.

Leo was born in Mesa and was a lifelong resident. After graduating from Mesa High School in 1944, he joined the Army and served in Japan and the Philippines. After returning, he and his brother Marvin farmed their property in Mesa, growing lettuce, melons and other vegetables. In 1956, Leo married Betty C. Smith. They purchased property in South Chandler and Leo continued farming it with Marvin, growing alfalfa and corn. During this time, Leo & Betty also owned and operated a commercial fertilizer company until he retired at age 50. They then moved to Payson where they built a home and started a tree farm. This endeavor fed Leo’s passion for growing plants and watching them thrive. They also traveled extensively together, making many life-long friends wherever their RV journeys took them. They lived for several months in Hawaii and enjoyed their cruises to the Bahamas and through the Panama Canal. Leo lived a full and successful life of work, family and fun. He laughed easily and loved intensely. He was the well-loved patriarch of the family and will be dearly missed.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, April 17 at Valley of the Sun Mortuary & Cemetery, 10940 E. Chandler Heights Rd, Chandler. Visitation and refreshments will be held from 10:00 am-12:00 noon, followed by a graveside service. Casual attire is requested.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider making a donation to Advanced Home Health & Hospice of Arizona, who provided Leo exemplary care. They can be reached at 2045 S Vineyard, #127, Mesa, AZ 85210.