Martha J. Palmer, 63, of Topeka, passed away on Wednesday, February 14, 2024 at a Topeka hospital. She was born October 23, 1960 in Junction City, Kansas, the daughter of Robert E. and Lucille A. (Kleinfehn) Knapp.

Martha graduated from Tonganoxie High School in 1979 and earned a Master’s Degrees in Education and Special Education from Emporia State in 1985. She was employed by TARC as a Special Needs Educator. Martha was previously was employed by Arrowhead West in Dodge City, Kansas. She was a member of Christ the King Catholic Church and volunteered for the Kansas Discovery Center.

Martha married Mitchell L. Palmer on November 25, 1988 in Kansas City, Kansas. He survives. Other survivors include one daughter, Maley Palmer of Topeka, and her siblings, Walter Knapp, Mary Knapp, Robert Knapp, John Knapp, James Knapp, Kathy Stockman, Donna Somers, Karen Bearden, and Laura Knapp.

Martha was preceded in death by her parents and siblings, Richard Knapp, Regina Davis, and Margaret Knapp.

A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, February 21, 2024 at Christ the King Catholic Church. Cremation will follow the service and private inurnment will take place in Sacred Heart Cemetery in Tonganoxie at a later date. A Rosary will be Prayed at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, February 20, 2024 at Dove Southwest Chapel, 3700 SW Wanamaker Rd. where the family will receive friends following the Rosary until 8:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to TARC, 2701 SW Randolph Ave., Topeka, Kansas 66611 for Early Childhood Education.

Dove Southwest Chapel, 3700 SW Wanamaker Rd. is assisting the family with service arrangements.

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