Gordon PALMER Obituary

Heartfelt condolences and may Gordon sing withthe angels

Gordon was our lifesaver on SO many occasions; I remember the late-night emergency repairs of not only my instruments but also those of many others during my uni days. I was still bringing my horns to him whenever I visited Auckland from Whitianga over the last few years. Gordon was one of the most meticulously reliable people I knew; I always appreciated his detailed, up-to-date answerphone messages saying what time he'd be back and there was something strangely comforting about how that little office/workroom of his never changed (not even in 20-plus years); in fact sometimes I even brought people with me to meet him and see it. I'll also never forget his acceptance of my invitation to my final clarinet recital at uni; he showed up resplendent in a bright blue shirt. Indeed he has touched the lives of many fortunate people and this is a massive end of an era - RIP Gordon xoxo

Ever since I started learning the oboe over 10 years ago I have taken my oboes to get looked after by Gordon only. His attention and care to my instruments and I'm sure many other people's will be sorely missed.

Rest In Peace Gordon.

I never met Gordon in the flesh, but through the internet I learned to appreciate and value his willingness to share his expertise with others. I will always be grateful for the times he assisted me with sound advice and suggestions. He will be missed.

Very sad news but happy memories of the many shows we did with Gordon. Also he is the only person I trusted to maintain my clarinet. It always came back playing much better. A fine and meticulous technician. Jenny and Vic Bartley

Gordon was a fascinatingly honest intelligent and true individual who was very considered in every thing he undertook. I will miss his excellent service as a flute repairer. As a teacher, Gordon started me on my life-long journey as a flute player with lessons at Remuera Intermediate for which I am very grateful. The music scene in Auckland will miss him very much. Vale Gordon.

A kind and sincere man with his knowledge. Always willing to help with instrument repairs. Things you can't learn from books. Gordon left A great wealth of information on SOTW. Many will enjoy this for years to come. Although we never met in person I am honored to have known the man.
My condolences to the family. May Gordon rest in peace.
Glenn McClellan
Los Angeles, California

He was free with his advice. He figured out his own way to do things, often different, but always worth considering. We exchanged parts once, which is always a challenge for us here in the USA, as it probably was for him. His perspective, being closer to Asia than we were, was very valuable. I am sorry for his family that he had to end his days in hospice. My prayers for his family.

So sorry for your loss! Please know that Gordon touched many within the music community. One example is his active participation on the Sax On The Web Forum, where he freely shared his vast knowledge with thousands of fellow musicians. Please know he will be missed by many! Here's a link to comments from the forum sharing this sentiment:

https://forum.saxontheweb.net/showthread.php?377756-R-I-P-Gordon&referrerid=9283

Gordon's expertise,honesty and integrity were like no other. He will be truly missed. His skills (launched after backing over a flute) have saved my instruments. Two tall green string bags of walnuts on his porch showed Gordon's style in a nutshell.