Obituary of Gisela K. Balmer

Gisela K. Balmer (nee Schrass), age 87, of Wilmington, DE, passed away peacefully on May 8, 2026, surrounded by the warmth and love of her family. Born in Hochspeyer, Germany, to the late Johannes and Katharina Rahm Schrass, Gisela’s life was a beautiful journey defined by her deep devotion to those she held dear. In 1959, she married the love of her life, William Balmer, while he was stationed in Germany. They moved to the United States in 1960, settling in Southwest Philadelphia to raise their four children before eventually moving to Northern Delaware, where they have resided for the past 31 years.

Gisela was a dedicated professional, retiring in 1996 after 25 years with the United Airlines Flight Kitchen, but her heart was always centered on her home and family. Gisela loved her flowers, summers at the campground and holidays with her family. She adored babies; nothing brought a brighter light to her eyes than holding the newest members of the family in her arms. Whether she was baking traditional German treats or sharing stories, her greatest treasure was simply being together with her family. 

In addition to her parents, Gisela is preceded in death by her beloved children, John R. Balmer and Patricia M. Balmer, and her brothers, Karl-Heinz and Walter Schrass. She is survived by her devoted husband of 67 years, William Balmer; her children, James (Elin) Balmer and Barbara (Mark) Nestore; her siblings, Hans Schrass and Erika Karpstein; and a legacy of 11 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.

A viewing will be held on Friday, May 15th from 9:30-11:00AM at the Pagano Funeral Home, 3711 Foulk Rd., Garnet Valley, PA followed by a Funeral Service at 11AM. Interment, Lawn Croft Cemetery, Linwood, PA. Online Condolences may be made by visiting www.paganofuneralhome.com