W. Dee Palmer named to DeKalb Music Boosters hall of fame

DeKALB – The DeKalb Music Boosters posthumously will welcome musician and community leader W. Dee Palmer into the new Music Hall of Fame.

“Dee Palmer was a legend in this community, so it is fitting that he is our first Hall of Fame honoree,” DeKalb School District 428 music coordinator Jill McCormick said in a news release. “Not only was Dee a truly gifted musician and educator, but he was beloved for his charming and kind personality. He is a perfect representation of what our Muse Award stands for in the Hall of Fame.”

As a professional musician, Palmer had the opportunity to play with performers such as Perry Como, Ella Gitzgerald, Dizzy Gillespie and Louis Armstrong. He also delivered 63 years of music as part of the DeKalb Municipal Band.

A special ceremony commemorating Palmer, who died in 2011, will take place during the Hats, Horses and Harmony fundraiser for the DeKalb Music Boosters on April 14 at the River Heights Golf Course, 1020 Sharon Drive.

The event will feature student performances, simulated horse races, derby-themed hors d’oeuvres, a cash bar and prizes. Tickets are $35 a person and can be bought by emailing the DeKalb Music Boosters at dekalbmusicboosters428@gmail.com or calling Valerie Vance at 630-670-4830.