Talbert “Tab” Balmer, Sr., 81 of Joy, IL, passed away at his home Friday, September 15, 2023. Cremation has been accorded. Graveside services will be 2 p.m., Saturday, September 30, at Aledo Cemetery followed by a Celebration of Life starting at 3 p.m. at the Mercer County VFW.
Tab was born February 24, 1942, in Rock Island, IL, the son of Louis and Fern Riddell Balmer. He graduated from Keithsburg High School in 1960. Tab married Carolyn Davis in 1964 and later married Beverly Rush March 29, 1974, in Quincy, Illinois. She passed away June 21, 2021.
Tab worked for over 20 years at Blackhawk Foundry in Davenport and farmed since 1979. In 1985, Tab and Bev leased the Midtown Lounge in Aledo. On 8/8/88, the same night the lights went on at Wrigley Field, they purchased the business and renamed it “Tab and Bev’s.” They retired in 2005. Tab was a 50-year Mason, a member of Duck’s Unlimited and was a fireman in the 1960s. He enjoyed junking, fishing, and hunting. He especially enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and attending their sporting events.
Those left to cherish his memory are his children, Tammy (Monty) Bryant of Hico, TX, Randy (Brenda) Morford of Aledo, IL, Tim (Alycia) Morford of Hillsboro, IL, and Tab (Myah) Balmer, Jr., of Aledo; 13 grandchildren; five great grandchildren; sisters, Sandra (Guy “Buzz”) Douglas of New Boston and Patty (Bob) Gordon of Rock Island; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Bev, and a grandson David Morford.
Upcoming Celebration of Life details may be found, as well as online condolences left, at www.dennisonfuneralhome.com.