PALM
On Tuesday, June 26, 2012, Eli William Palm passed away to a place of no pain.
Eli was a kind-hearted, loving boy with a contagious sense of humour, an old soul, and an unrivaled sense of sportsmanship. He worked hard, played hard, and made an unbelievable number of people very happy. Born in Rimbey on June 1, 1995, Eli leaves a wide circle of heartbreak in his passing.
Many childhood days were spent on the farm with his grandparents, Ruth and Leo who taught him to tell time, hill potatoes, and sauna like a proper Finn. They nurtured Eli's love of music and were his most captive audience as he sat down at the piano, picked up a violin, and eventually dabbled in guitar.
Most will remember Eli in a jersey; soccer, basketball, track, uniforms he inherited from his father, Rod who coached him through these endeavours. Under his guidance, Eli became a tough competitor, good sport, and encouraging leader. His genuine love of the game and the boys he shared it with was clearly evident. His mother, Mary was the soft place, the listening ear, the gentle hug, and diligent educator. His quiet wisdom, inclusive attitude, and affectionate ways were a credit to her nurturing. So were all his best dance moves. To his sisters, Eli was a secret-keeper, friend, playmate, and partner in crime. Emma and Annika would like to take credit for his many stunning qualities, but really it was he who taught them patience, reason, and how to laugh.
Confidence, humility, creativity, work ethic, quick wit, and a keen intuition; these and so many other remarkable qualities are a reflection of Eli's family, including Marilyn, Sandy, and Jessie Negropontes; and Chris, Joyce, Susan, Sadie, and Evan Dann of Calgary; as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended relatives. In addition, the family Eli chose for himself, his friends, meant just as much as those who were related. The quality of character exemplified by these people is a heartwarming indicator of his good judgment and charisma. For as much as Eli's large family gave... they received it back a hundredfold.
There are not enough words to thank all of the individuals, coaches, teachers, friends, and mentors that shaped him. This boy we loved so dearly was truly 'raised by a village'. We are so proud of the man Eli was becoming, and grateful for each moment of his wild and precious life.
A Public Memorial Service in Celebration of Eli's Life was held at the Rimbey Community Centre, Rimbey on Monday, July 2, 2012 at 1:00 p.m. with the Reverend Deborah Laing officiating. Cremation took place at the Central Alberta Crematorium, Red Deer. If friends desire, memorial tributes in Eli’s Memory may be made directly to Kids In Sports, Box 655, Rimbey, Alberta T0C 2J0; or to the Canadian Mental Health Association, Central Alberta Region, 5017 - 50 Avenue, Red Deer, Alberta T4N 4B2. Everyone is welcome to share your memories of Eli online at: www.palmbay.ca/elipalm
Funeral and Cremation Arrangements for the Late Eli William Palm entrusted to the care of
OBERHAMMER FUNERAL CHAPELS
Rimbey, AB. 403-843-4445