Obituary of Robert George Ballmes

Robert George “Bob” Ballmes, 89, passed peacefully on February 8, 2022. Raised in Rotterdam, NY, he was the son of the late, George and Elizabeth “Bessie” (Quigg) Ballmes. 

After graduating from Draper High School in 1949, he honorably served in the Korean War. He was stationed in Germany helping the war effort within the tank division.

Bob earned a degree in Applied Science at Hudson Valley Community College. He began an apprenticeship at the Watervliet Arsenal that turned into a 37 year career with Benet Labs, where he worked on top secret programs for the government. In 1990, he retired and went to work part-time as a driver for different car auctions in the area. 

Bob was a proud American and devoted Republican, he stayed up to date with current events through trusted media platform, FOX News. 

He found happiness with his family, friends and life companion, Gail Schlotter. He enjoyed going to camp on Sacandaga Lake, playing billiards and golf, watching NASCAR on Sunday with his son, Dave, traveling to destinations such as, Las Vegas, Florida and taking cruises in the Caribbean. 

Bob maintained his independence and kept his mind sharp with his witty humor and completing the newspaper puzzle every morning. In his final years, his heart expanded with the love of the Maddalone family, whom he spent many holidays with. 

Bob is survived by his loving companion, Gail Schlotter; his children, George Ballmes of Rotterdam, Jacquelyn (Ernest) Lionarons of Saratoga, David Ballmes (Debbie Maddalone-Kenyon), Christine Ballmes (Hector Ramos), as well as Sandy Schlotter; grandchildren, Justin Lionarons and Alescia Lionarons (Brian Bentley) and Karissa Ballmes; great-grandchildren, Gavin Lionarons, Anneliese, Julianna, Cody Bentley; as well as many life-long friends. 

Calling hours will be held at the Glenville Funeral Home, 9 Glenridge Rd. on Thursday, February 17th from 10 AM to 12 PM. A Celebration of Life Service will begin at 12 PM. Service will be live streamed at https://www.facebook.com/GlenvilleFuneralHome/    Burial will follow at St. John the Baptist Cemetery. 

Memorial contributions may be made in Bob’s honor to Alzheimer's Association of Northeastern NY, 4 Pine West Plaza #405, Albany, NY 12205 or the Ronald McDonald House, 139 S Lake Ave, Albany, NY 12208.

Online condolences may be made at glenvillefuneralhome.com