Obituary of Robert Kenneth Balmer

Robert Kenneth Balmer, 74, of Rochester, passed away peacefully on September 9, 2020. Bob was a very giving and hardworking individual. He took great pride in his work. Bob's work ethics were always the highest, he was strict but fair, conquering any obstacle placed before him whether it was work or life related. That was always seen in his military career as well as his civilian life, but even during leisure time he worked tirelessly to ensure that everyone was enjoying themselves. Bob is survived by his wife, Ellen (Whittemore) Balmer of 50+ years; daughter, Alicia (Anthony Ross) Balmer; son, David (Heather) Balmer; grandchildren, Adalynn, Cameron, Couper, Michael; siblings, Linda, Sharon, Larry and Darlene; sister-in-law, Mary Ann Whittemore; and several nieces and nephews. Bob is predeceased by his parents, Lawrence and Margaret Balmer; and brother, Steven Maurice Balmer. Bob was born on May 4, 1946 and graduated from Penfield High School in 1964. He was in the National Guard before entering in the U.S. Army in May of 1965. His military career consisted of Duty Stations to include Vietnam (1965-67, and 1969-70); Bit burg, Germany, Communications; Fort Gordon, GA; Drill Sergeant, Bad Tolz, Germany; 82nd Airborne Special Forces; Fort Gordon, GA Communications; Fort Carson, CO Communications; Heilbronn, Germany Headquarters Unit; Falls Church, VA, CID. Bob retired in 1985 as a MSG (E8) and went to work at Analytics in McLean, VA, then to Betac in Alexandria, VA; and concluded his career as program manager in Military Intelligence at Lockheed Martin in Alexandria, VA. During his civilian career he was taken to places around the world, due to his travels his family experienced many opportunities of exciting places along with him. Since 2010, Bob has lived with his wife, Ellen, on a farm in Owego, NY. Family and friends are blessed with many unforgettable memories as a result of loving and knowing Bob Balmer. There will be a 1:00 p.m. Graveside Service with Military Honors on Monday, September 21, 2020 at the Riverside Cemetery, Vestal Ave., Endicott. The family will receive friends on Sunday, September 20, 2020 from 2-4 p.m. at the Coleman & Daniels Funeral Home, LLC, 300 E. Main St., Endicott. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Bob's name to either the Whittemore Hill Church, 1349 Whittemore Hill Road, Owego, NY 13827 or the Tattered Paws & Golden Hearts Rescue, 4232 Spring Creek Lane, Bellingham, VA 98226.