Marilyn Palmer Gagen

Marilyn Palmer Gagen, 85, of Cheyenne passed away May 24, 2025, surrounded by family. She was born June 22, 1939, to Theadore James and Margaret (Lynch) Palmer in Sumner, Iowa.

Marilyn earned her Education Degree from Iowa State University where she met her husband, Michael. They were married June 1, 1963, and started their life together in San Diego, CA, where Michael was active duty in the Navy. They relocated to Wyoming following Michael’s love of trees and his job in forestry. Michael continued to serve in the Naval Reserve with Marilyn proudly fulfilling her duties as a part-time Navy wife. As a young mother Marilyn was active in the Cathedral Guild at The Cathedral of St. Mary in Cheyenne holding various offices including President. She went on to teach Art at Carey Junior High School for 23 years. She earned her Master of Education at the University of Wyoming in August 1985.

Her hobbies included playing golf, Mahjong, sailing, quilting, investing in the stock market, learning Spanish, antiquing and gardening. As a proud Palmer she spent many hours on genealogy research. She and Michael were Winter Texans calling Southern Texas home in the winters for 26 years. They enjoyed traveling together, and with many good friends, visiting Italy, New Zealand, France, Ireland, Alaska and Mexico.

She is survived by Michael H. Gagen, husband of 62 years and three children: Michael (Miscese) Gagen, Townsend, MT, Michelle Pickert, Overland Park, KS and Mark (Liz) Gagen, Cheyenne, WY. She was so very proud of her 7 grandchildren, Michael, Jessica and Kayla, Joseph and Molly, Brooke and Liam. She was just getting to know her 2 great grandchildren, Maverick and Lucas. She is also survived by two brothers-in-law, Robert Gagen (Pam), Denny Gagen (Kathy) and 9 nieces and nephews: Debora, Dawn, Tom, Todd, Troy, Chris, Sean, John and Ryan.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her older brother Robert Palmer.

Because of her proud service as a part time Navy wife for 29 years, her ashes will be interned with her husband at the Cheyenne National Cemetery at an appropriate time,

She was a kind, intelligent woman who will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

Cremation is under care of Wiederspahn-Radomsky Funeral Home. The Funeral Liturgy will be held 10:00, Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at St. Mary's Cathedral. A graveside service will follow at 2:00 p.m., at the Cheyenne National Cemetery.