Martha Ruth Balmer

Martha Ruth (Bayne) Balmer, 95, of California, Pa., died Monday, May 23, 2011, in the Adult Assisted Living facility in Dunlevy. She was born Nov. 13, 1915, in Lone Pine, a daughter of Otis and Dora (Moore) Bayne. She was a member of the California United Methodist Church. Martha's husband, Milton "Bud" Balmer, died in 1969. Being suddenly widowed, Martha was fortunate to find a job that she loved at the California Borough Police Department. She began her working career at age 55 and didn't retire until the age of 83. She was conscientious, dedicated and responsible. In earlier years, she enjoyed taking Elderhostel classes at California University of Pennsylvania and being a member of the California Area Historical Society. She loved nature and would sit for many hours enjoying her beautiful backyard sanctuary. She especially loved birds and could identify many by sight or song. Martha also enjoyed traveling, reading and flower gardening. Martha was a loving wife and a great mother. She was preceded in death by her husband, Milton Holmes "Bud" Balmer, whom she married in 1939; her parents; and by one sister, Arleta "Hon" Burch. Survivors include her daughter, Sondra Skibo and husband, Stanley, of Ortonville, Mich.; son, Brett Balmer and wife, Ada, of Scottsdale, Ariz.; and daughter, Bethany and husband, Gary Brent, of Achilles, Va; her grandchildren, Jonathan and Jeremy Skibo and Brittany Balmer; and great-grandchildren, Erin and Lainee Skibo. She is also survived by her younger sister, Mary Grace Byrne, of Maryland; and several beloved nieces and nephews. As our mother requested, a private memorial service for her immediate family will be held. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Lone Pine Christian Church, 582 Lone Pine Road, Washington, PA 15301, or the California United Methodist Women, 227 Third St., California, PA 15419. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the MARISCOTTI FUNERAL HOME INC., Anthony N. Mariscotti, supervisor, 323 Fourth St., California, PA 15419. Rest well mother; we will love and treasure your memory forever.