Rick A. Balmer

Ricki Alan “Rick” Balmer, 68, of South Bend, passed away on July 13, 2025. He was born on April 10, 1957, in South Bend, Indiana, to the late Roger E. and Patricia A. (Whybrew) Balmer. A proud graduate of Penn High School, Rick was part of the Class of 1975. Rick met the love of his life, Paula Hillebrand, thanks to a little matchmaking from his sister, who worked with Paula as a waitress. They fell in love and married on March 14, 1981, in South Bend. They recently celebrated 44 wonderful years together. Rick and Paula enjoyed traveling together and “taking the back roads.”

Rick is survived by his wife, Paula Balmer of South Bend; his children Jamie (Brian) Hart, Roger (Jess) Balmer, and Amanda (Landon) Weigand; and his cherished grandchildren Tristan Balmer, Kyleigh Mason, Ryenne Balmer, Amelia Hart, Arianna Balmer, Isabelle Hart, Lane Hart, Edward Cenkush, Charlee Kimbel, Jayce Kimbel, Kylie Weigand, and Jaedon Weigand. He is also survived by his siblings Sherri Balmer, Mark (Kathy) Balmer, Michael Balmer, Lori (Bryan) Rayl, Ron (Lori) Balmer Amy (Tim) Woodruff, and Tom Balmer. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Ryan Balmer, and his granddaughter Emma Hart.

Rick was known for his work ethic and for helping others. Following high school, he was determined to be self-employed. He ran his own business selling firewood before starting Cornerstone Masonry, his brick mason business. His brickwork can still be seen around the Michiana area today. He later became a semi-truck driver for Big C Lumber before eventually taking a position as an over-the-road truck driver for Central States Manufacturing in Michigan City.

Rick was always a family man who loved coaching his kids in sports when they were young. His life lessons and encouragement made a lasting impression on his children. His love grew exponentially when he had grandchildren. When he would spend time with them, he would look around and say, “Man, it don’t get no better than this.” Rick and Paula made strong efforts to attend and support their grandkids in their sports and activities as often as possible. His love for family was evident in nearly everything he did.

Rick had a sarcastic sense of humor and a fun-loving personality. Known for his booming voice, he never met a stranger, was always ready to talk, and was quick to make a friend. While he was never shy about sharing a story or a laugh, he especially enjoyed meeting new people during motorcycle rides in the community.

Though he didn’t serve in the military himself, Rick was deeply proud of his family’s service and was a passionate supporter of the military community. With his siblings, he founded the S.A. Ryan Balmer Memorial Fund in memory of their youngest brother with the purpose of helping local veterans in need. The foundation has worked with and supported numerous military organizations, including Honor and Remember Flag Association of Indiana, Stop 22, Miller’s Vets, Gold and Blue Star Mothers, Indiana Fallen Heroes, Wreaths Across America, and Quilts of Valor.

The Balmer family will have a celebration of Rick’s life for family and friends on Saturday, July 26, 2025, from 12-4 pm at St. Mark Missionary Church, 55240 Bittersweet Rd, Mishawaka, IN 46545. Wells and Cruz Family Funeral Home and Cremation Care of Mishawaka has been entrusted with his arrangements.

To light a virtual candle, share a story of Rick’s life, or leave a message of comfort for his family, please follow the links provided on the Guestbook tab above.

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