In Memoriam

Jill Palonco, SJM Class of ‘84, and Hall of Fame inductee in 2016, passed away September 1, 2019. Many of her family members also attended Memorial.

While Jill played basketball and volleyball during her four years at Memorial, softball was her passion.  As a sophomore, she was recognized as the team’s Outstanding Infield Defensive Player. In her junior year, Jill earned All-Metro accolades, was named Most Valuable Player All League 1st Team and Central Sequoia League Defensive Player of the Year.

As a senior, Jill took home the Best Defensive Player of the Year award for softball, was named to the Fresno Bee All Metro squad and was recognized with the 1984 Gutierrez Sportsmanship Award.  Jill went on to play softball at Fresno State where she was one of two players to earn All-American recognition.

Vincent Palmo, Sr., SJM parent, booster and volunteer, passed away August 25, 2019. He was inducted into the SJM Hall of Fame Class of 2007.

Palmo adopted San Joaquin Memorial in the fall of 1972 when he and his wife Klytia decided to enroll their children: Vince, Jr. ‘76, Luke ‘78, Maria ‘79 and Gina ‘81.  He supported Memorial and its athletic program in great ways. His commitment to Catholic education and to SJM was well known. Palmo was an SJM school board member and member of the SJM Dad’s Club. He was a leader in the effort to renovate the football field stands and lighting, as well as the renovation and construction of the baseball field.

His construction company built the Brothers Residence, the Brother S. Albert and Sister M. Paola Science Center, the Mary Alice Diener Media Center as well Ryan’s Gym.  Palmo also served as chairman of the St. Pat’s Golf Committee. San Joaquin Memorial and its athletic program are grateful for the dedication and generous spirit of Vince Palmo.