It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved Palmer. Palmer Henry Grumbine, age 10, of Valparaiso, Indiana, received his wings on January 24, 2026, in the loving embrace of his mother’s arms at Lurie Children’s Hospital in Chicago, Illinois. He was born July 18, 2015, in Valparaiso, Indiana, to his ever-loving parents Andrew and Ashley Grumbine. A beloved child of God, Palmer was baptized into the Christian faith on July 14, 2018.
Palmer played baseball in the summer and hockey in the winter. He loved everything to do with aircrafts and could name any plane shown to him. He had a passion for building with Legos, most recently proud of his 2,083 piece Concorde. Palmer’s career goals through the years included becoming an astronaut, a pro baseball player, a pilot, and most recently a Disney Imagineer, indicating how much he treasured the many magical family Disney trips he had taken with his parents and siblings.
Palmer’s smile made everyone around him feel as happy as he was. He had the most honest demeanor, and you could tell how he felt just by being around him. He was very smart, but always curious to learn more. Palmer carried a calm presence and quiet confidence. He had a special power in that when he said your name, it just felt a little extra special. And when he hugged you, it really felt like he meant it. On his 6-month birthday, Palmer’s mom posted “6 months with the sweetest boy I know”. The post would turn out to be a prophecy as Palmer carried that sweet disposition throughout his life.
‘Kind’ was the first word that Palmer’s cousin used to describe him, and this quality influenced those around him. We can all honor Palmer’s legacy by embracing kindness in our own lives, recognizing that treating others kindly can create a meaningful difference.
With Palmer’s passing we remind others that his life is one to be celebrated. Although we will miss him every day, we were all lucky to have known him during his time on this earth. When we think about Palmer, we are met with the urge to hug our families and to enjoy our time with loved ones above all else.
Palmer is survived by his parents, Andrew and Ashley Grumbine of Valparaiso, Indiana; sister Penelope Grumbine and brothers Westin and Holden Grumbine; Maternal great-grandmother Juanita Doyle; Maternal grandparents John and Barbara Doyle of St. Joseph, Michigan; Paternal grandparents Dave and Sally Grumbine of St. Joseph, Michigan; aunt Pamela Doyle; uncle Brett Wier and aunt Kristin Wier and cousins Hannah and Averie Wier; uncle Mike Morphey and aunt Kara Morphey, cousins Keegan, Maddox, and Duncan Morphey; uncle Alex Grumbine and aunt Alyson Grumbine and cousin Gibson; and his loving dogs Max and Luna.
A private memorial service will be held for his immediate family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Palmer’s name to: Valparaiso Americans Baseball, 3603 Oak Grove Dr, Valparaiso, Indiana 46383.
A celebration of Palmer’s life will follow on March 8th from 10 am to 1pm for extended family and friends at Journeyman in Valparaiso, Indiana.
GUESTBOOK
Grumbine Family, It is deep sadness I send to you my condolences. My prayers are with you during this difficult time. May God’s grace and love fall upon you all today and every day. -Marisa Maldonado and family
We will miss Palmer’s laughter and cheering echoing on the field. Though he may no longer be with us, his memory will forever live on in our hearts on and off the field. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this incredibly difficult time. Rest in peace, dear Palmer. You will be deeply missed. -Nava Family
There are no words to express our feelings of sympathy for your entire family. Palmer was one of the sweetest boys we have ever known. May GOD watch over all of you throughout these difficult times. -Charles and Sharon Bournazos
We are thinking of you and your family in this unbelievably difficult time. Continue to live for Palmer. -Paige and Trevor Knight
Remembering Palmer's twinkling eyes when he smiled! A dear boy who will be deeply missed. With Love, -Aunt Judy & Uncle Allen
Sending thoughts and prayers for you and your family. So sorry for your loss but glad to hear about God newest angle. Blessings to all, -Alice Mintz
I am so sorry for your loss. Palmer was such a kind kid. I truly don’t know what to say. We’re here if you guys need absolutely anything. -The Couwenhovens
Chance had the pleasure of being Palmer's coach during two baseball seasons and Dominic got to be his teammate .... and his parents & siblings were such gems that we enjoyed so much. My heart has been breaking for weeks about sweet Palmer. Ashley & Andrew, Chance & I are so very very sorry & have been thinking about you guys. We will see you March 8th. Also, been thinking about all of you HVEL teachers and staff. -Kim Garbison
