Gerald Palmgren

Gerald O. Palmgren, 75, passed away peacefully on September 2, 2025. Born April 15, 1950, Gerald grew up in La Garita, Colorado, learning the value of hard work on his father's farm. He carried those lessons throughout his life, graduating from Center High School in 1968 and soon after, building a respected career with the Monte Vista Co-op. Starting in the car care center, Gerald rose through the ranks to become general manager, a position he held with pride for 29 years. His commitment to agriculture and community lives on through the Monte Vista Co-op Scholarship Fund, which he established to support future generations of farmers and ranchers.

Alongside his work at the Co-op, Gerald was also a rancher, owning and operating his own cattle ranch with the same determination and integrity that guided his life. In addition, he and his wife, Debbie, brought many years of joy to the community as the owners of the Dairy Queen in Monte Vista.

Gerald had a great zest for life and an adventurous spirit. He loved everything about the outdoors-hunting, fishing, camping, horseback riding, and motorcycles, both street and dirt. He was always ready for the next adventure, whether under wide-open skies or gathered around a campfire.

A competitive spark lit his days, especially when it came to card games and poker, which he played with enthusiasm and joy. Through his words and his actions, Gerald taught his children to work hard, never give up, and to strike the phrase "I can't" from their vocabulary. He was a man of his word, and whatever he said he would do, he did.

Gerald is survived by his loving wife, Debbie Palmgren, and his children: Laura (John) Rydgren, Brent (Mitzi) Palmgren, and stepchildren: Tim (Susan) Miller and Greg (Ramona) Palmgren. He also leaves behind his brothers Randall (Linda) Palmgren and Eddie (Sandra) Palmgren, and his sister Jara (Royce) Feagans. Gerald was a proud grandfather to Katie (Dylan) Fulton, Tiffany Miller, Adrian (Stephanie) Palmgren, Zane Palmgren, Stone Palmgren, Caleb Henson, Logan Henson, Charlie Henson, and Oliver Henson, as well as five great-grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Gerald was preceded in death by his parents, Virgil and Ellen Palmgren, his brother Vernon Palmgren, and his sister Sandra McKenzie.

Gerald will be remembered for his independence, ornery nature, determination, and above all, the deep love he held for his family. His heart of gold and unwavering support will be greatly missed.

Cremation was chosen, and a Celebration of his life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, October 10, 2025, at the Mountain Valley Mortuary in Monte Vista, where family and friends will gather to celebrate the life of this remarkable man who touched so many lives. The family kindly requests that, in lieu of flowers, contributions be made to the Monte Vista Co-op's Scholarship Fund. To express condolences, please visit www.mvmortuary.com

Arrangements are in the compassionate care of Mountain Valley Mortuary