Marshall Lee Balmer returned to his Heavenly Father on February 25, 2025, at the age of 93. Born on April 17, 1931, in Floyds Knobs, Indiana, Marshall spent his life deeply rooted in the farm where he was raised. Dedication to farming was not only a testament to his work ethic but also to his love for the land that shaped him.
Marshall earned the affectionate nickname "Burnie" from his many controlled burns on his farm, a practice he embraced with knowledge and care. His passion for farming extended beyond mere profession; it was a way of life that influenced his values and strengthened his bonds with family, neighbors, and all those who knew and loved him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred Balmer Sr. and Ethel Keibler Balmer; his brother, Fred Balmer Jr.; his sister, Veta Mae Dowdle; and his son, Martin Goodier.
He was a beloved husband to his late wife, Patricia Balmer, with whom he shared nearly 51 years of marriage, before her passing. Together, they built a life filled with love and shared joys, including their mutual enjoyment of traveling and bowling.
He is survived by his sister, Alice (Richard) Schleicher. Marshall leaves to cherish his memory his four children, Ronald Balmer, Rebecca (Jerry) Elkin, Marcia (Otis) Coyle, and Laura (Troy) Spencer; and his daughter-in-law, Michelle Goodier. He was a proud grandfather to Jason (Bethany) Elkin, Matthew Balmer, Adam (Christine) Elkin, Michael (Liz) Coyle, William Coyle, Amanda (Denny) Adams, Daniel (Laurie) Balmer, Jessica (Cole) Goodier, Nicole Goodier, Cameron (Kyle) Coyle, and Gabriel Balmer. He also cherished his role as a great-grandfather to 17 great-grandchildren. He also leaves a host of nieces, nephews, and other loving extended family who all added joy and light to his life.
The family would like to extend their gratitude to the dear staff at Concierge Care of Southern Indiana, in particular his friend, Dr. Mark Bickers, for their love, support and tender care.
Visitation will be from 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Friday, March 7, 2025 at Newcomer Cremations, Funerals & Receptions (3309 Ballard Lane, New Albany). Visitation will continue on Saturday from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at Atkins Chapel United Methodist Church (7834 Atkins Chapel Road, Floyds Knobs). His Funeral Service will be at 11:00 am at the church with burial to follow at the church cemetery.
Memorial contributions in Marshall's memory can be made to Atkins Chapel United Methodist Church.
Please consider sharing a memory of Marshall or leaving a special message for the family by completing the online Guestbook below.
Friday, March 7, 2025
2:00 - 8:00 pm (Eastern time)
Newcomer Funeral Home, Southern Indiana
Saturday, March 8, 2025
11:00am - 12:00 pm (Eastern time)
Atkins Chapel United Methodist Church
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