“Ron” Palmquist, Sr. (92), was raised in the Chicago area in a Swedish American family that followed Swedish traditions full of humor and puns, cooking and hospitality, as well as a strong Christian faith. With a B.A. in journalism from University of Denver and postgraduate work at Boston University and the University of Colorado, he became a dynamic broadcaster in both radio and television. He was the anchor on the evening news during the 1960s and 70’s in Portland, Maine. His wide journalistic experience later resulted in his personal business, “Ron Palmquist/Public Relations” and also his founding and editing the “Business Digest.” His freelance articles and photographs have been published locally and nationally.

His passion for trains and model railroading brought Ron joy throughout his life. He cherished his friendships in the local railroading community. Ron was a true rail fan, proudly sharing with his friends many photos he had taken of prototype railroads during his travels around the country, especially of his beloved CB&Q from his childhood days. Ron donated many photo collections to organizations such as The 470 Railroad Club and to individuals who modelled the prototypes that he had photographed.

Ron supported the Seacoast Division NMRA for many years including serving as a director from 1996 through 2009 and editor of its newsletter, The Switch Tower, from 1996-2008. Ron’s journalistic talents made the newsletter special during his years as editor.

Ron served his community in many professional and journalistic organizations including the Maine Public Relations Council, Society of Professional Journalists, the Maine Press Association, the Torch Club of Western Maine, and the Rotary Club earning many awards and recognitions. He was a veteran of the United States Air Force.