HOLLIS- Dawn Marie Palmer, age 40, passed away and earned her wings on March 18, 2016 at Mercy Hospital after a courageous and inspirational fight with breast cancer.
She was born in Green Bay, Wisconsin, on May 27, 1975, the daughter of David and Celeste (Heyrman) Nelson who currently reside in Scarborough.
Dawn graduated in 1993 from Scarborough High School and went on to attend college at UMaine Farmington and USM.
She was employed as a paralegal for Keiter and Associates PA and previously as an office manager for the dentist office of Dr. Jay Cooney.
Dawn's life revolved around her beloved family, especially her daughters- Emily and Lindsey. She spent as much time as she could with them at their sporting events and volunteering for the organizations they played for, such as the Bonny Eagle and Velocity Soccer Clubs. The annual Palmer Pond Party, hosting holiday dinners for extended family and attending get-togethers with friends were times she cherished.
After being diagnosed with breast cancer, Dawn became an active cancer advocate and mentor to others affected by the disease. She was also active with Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure for several years.
Dawn is survived by her beloved husband- Derek Palmer of Hollis; daughters- Emily and Lindsey Palmer of Hollis; her parents; brother- David Nelson and his family of VA; step brother- Robert Nelson and his family of IL; mother-in-law- Karen Palmer of Buxton; three nephews; and many dear friends too numerous to count.
A service to celebrate Dawn's life will be held on Saturday, April 9, at 5 PM, at The Roost, 62 Chicopee Road, in Buxton. Following the service, everyone is welcome to stay at The Roost for a reception/dance to continue to celebrate her life. Everyone is encouraged to wear Dawn's favorite color – Purple.
Dawn's family would like to thank Dr. Sarah Ketchum, and the entire nursing staff at Mercy for their care, support, and compassion.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Chad E. Poitras Cremation and Funeral Service, 498 Long Plains Road, Buxton. Online condolence messages can be submitted at the funeral home's website, www.mainefuneral.com
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made towards a college fund for her children, Emily and Lindsey Palmer, and sent to Trademark Federal Credit Union P.O. Box 1440 Portland ME 04104