Bahmer was born near Gardena, North Dakota.

He earned his bachelor's degree from Valley City State University in Valley City, North Dakota, his master's from the University of Colorado at Boulder, and a doctorate from the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities.

During World War II, he served as chief of archival services for the United States Navy.

He served as president in the Society of American Archivists between 1961-1962.

[1] In 1970, Bahmer was given North Dakota's Rough Rider Award.