Brock Dean Palmer, known affectionately to his spiritual family as Nishkala, passed away peacefully on August 4, 2026, in Napa, California, at the age of 84.

Born in Elizabeth, New Jersey, Brock lived a life guided by quiet curiosity, artistic vision, and deep spiritual purpose. A long-time Mensa member and an honors graduate of the Philadelphia College of Art (BFA in Photography), he spent the late 1960s documenting the vibrant music and communal culture of Woodstock, New York, through his lens.

In 1979, his search for inner growth led him to Napa Valley, where he joined the community guided by Charles Berner (Yogeshwar Muni). Becoming a lifelong devotee of the Enlightenment Technique, he was given the name Nishkala, forging deep, enduring spiritual bonds that lasted over four decades.

A longtime Napa resident, Brock ran a multifaceted creative and technical practice as a photographer, graphic designer, web developer, photo restoration specialist, and personal computer consultant. In the mid-1990s, he also shared his innate talent for mathematics as a tutor at Napa Valley College. Across every endeavor, he was known for his extraordinary patience, sharp mind, and generous spirit.

Brock is survived by his loving sister, Shelby Palmer; his treasured nieces, Wendi Schwartz, Lauren Lassman, and Stacy Hering Astor; his cousins; and his devoted lifelong ashram family and friends.

Zikhrono livrakha — May his memory be a blessing.