UPDATE: Celebration of life information added March 19, 2025.

Maryland farrier Joseph M. Palmisano Jr., passed away February 15, 2025. He was 86.

Palmisano was a farrier for 50 years and a skilled but tough horseman. He was a teacher to those around him and had a passion for bonfires.

"While most folks enjoy a nice, manageable fire, Mike believed that if you couldn't feel the heat from a mile away, it wasn't worth lighting. Many a neighbor, and possibly the local fire department, learned this firsthand," his obituary reads.

Palmisano is survived by his wife, Debbie, and his two children and grandchildren. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. The family suggests lighting a fire in Palmisano's honor or thanking your farrier.

A celebration of life will be from 1-4 p.m. at Vanessa's Corner Pub, 2600 W. Liberty Rd., Westminister, MD 21157. Music will be performed by the O'Pelicans. Food and drink will be offered.