James Balmer

James Robert Balmer, Jr., 71, passed away on Sunday, July 23, 2017, at his home in Bethalto.

He was born May 13, 1946, in Pontiac, Michigan, the son of James Robert, Sr. and Aili (Wirtanen) Balmer.  Jim served as an aviation ordinance man in Vietnam with Marine Corp. fighter squadron VMFA-451, Marine Air Group 31 of the 2^nd Marine air wing. He served his country with honor and was discharged in May 1970 at the rank of Sergeant.  On February 8, 1985, James married Ruth Ann (Schueler) Bertels at Zion Lutheran Church in Bethalto. She survives.James worked for Anheuser Busch prior to retirement. He also worked in air traffic control at St. Louis Regional Airport. He attended Zion Lutheran Church in Bethalto.In addition to his wife, survivors include, two children, Jay Balmer of Raymond, Illinois, Andrew Balmer of Collinsville; three step children and their spouses, Tim and Heidi Bertels of Moro, Laurie and Terry Edwards of Moro, John and Christine Bertels of Dorsey; fifteen grandchildren; thirteen great grandchildren; and one sister and her husband, Carol and Mike Smelt of Harbor Springs, Michigan.  He was preceded in death by his parents.Visitation will be from 1 pm until time of service at 3 pm on Saturday, July 29, 2017, at Elias, Kallal & Schaaf Funeral Home in Bethalto with Pastor Willard Meyer officiating.  Cremation rites have been accorded.Memorials may be made to Zion Lutheran School’s Kindergarten Class.An online condolence and guest book may be found at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com .

Obit Provided By:
Elias, Kallal & Schaaf Funeral Home