Romeo "Omie" Palma's Obituary
Romeo "Omie" Palma, 83, of Sandy, Utah, passed away peacefully on December 7, 2025, surrounded by family.
Born on April 19, 1942, in Calmay, Dagupan City, Philippines, Omie grew up in a home filled with music, family, and the simple joys of the community he loved. After graduating from Calmay High School, he followed his passion to Olongapo, where he chased his dream of becoming a musician. As the lead vocalist of the "Hill Riders" Western band, his voice quickly became known - strong, soulful, and unmistakably his. It was during this time that he met the love of his life, Marcela. They married on September 10, 1978, in Subic, Olongapo, and built a beautiful life together with their four children.
Omie was known for his kindness, generosity, hard work, and stubbornness! Many knew him as the "siga" or the tough guy, but to his family, he was the softest heart in the room. A gentle soul (even if he tried not to show it). A dedicated husband and provider, a proud dad, and the sweetest (sometimes grumpiest 😉) grandpa or "Papa" who adored his grandkids more than anything in the world!
Music was woven into everything he did. He never stopped loving country songs, and he shared that passion with everyone around him. Whether he was singing, strumming his guitar, or simply humming around the house, he brought warmth and comfort with every note.
Omie is survived by his wife of 47 years, Marcela; his children Robert (Aileen), Roussella (John), Emmanuell (Hillary), and Abbygrace (Anh); and his grandchildren Alyanna, Maddox, Aksel, AJ, and Kai. He is also survived by his siblings Helen, Ella (Clint), Emma (Bob), and Rolly, along with many nieces and nephews who loved him dearly. He is reunited with his parents, Conrado and Isabel, and his brother Ruben, who welcomed him home with open arms.
A celebration of his life will be held at 2:00 PM on Friday, December 12, 2025, at Premier Funeral Services in Midvale, Utah.
Omie's warmth, humor, stubborn charm, and the deep love he showed in his own quiet, unique ways will live on in the hearts of everyone who knew him. He will be missed beyond words and remembered with so much love.
As one of his favorite country artists, Merle Haggard sang:
"Take me away and turn back the years
Sing me back home before I die."
You are home now, Omie. Until we meet again. 🙏
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