It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of James R Balmer, his journey came to an end on August 29th, 2024. He was a wonderful Husband, loving Dad, Papa, Brother and Friend.
James “Jim” was born January 23rd, 1952, in Hershey Pennsylvania to the parents of Paul and Teresa Balmer. This is where his sweet tooth and love for chocolate began! His family moved to Mesa Arizona when he was a young child. Jim’s work ethic began at the age 11 as a paperboy. Jim attended and played football at Mesa High where he graduated from in 1970. After High School he worked at Superlite Builders Supply making cinder blocks. In the late 1970’s he started working for the Tanner Companies/United Metro. During his 26 years there, he developed a commercial driver training program that he was very proud of. He furthered his career in this industry at Chandler Ready Mix as their Transportation Manager. This was his true passion!
In 2003 he was offered a position as a Transportation Manager at Arizona Materials, a brand-new start-up ready mix company. This was the chance of a lifetime and by far the best career move he could have ever made. He loved his job and looked forward to going to work every day. In May of 2023 he retired.
Jim and his family enjoyed road-trips and camping all way from Durango, CO to Canada where they enjoyed outdoor activities such as 4 wheeling, white river rafting, and fishing. Jim’s personal favorite was 4 wheeling in the San Juan mountains in southwest Colorado.
Jim leaves behind his wife Lori of 42 years, his daughters Lindsay (Kevin) and Kelly, and two grandchildren Brandon and Brody. Jim was the oldest of 5 children. He was proceeded in death by his sister Joanne, and his parents Paul and Teresa Balmer. Jim’s surviving siblings include his sister Patricia Frazee (David) and brothers Kenneth and Michael Balmer.
Jim was an excellent teacher, his legacy will live on through those he influenced and mentored.