John R. Balken, Sr. went peacefully to be with the Lord at his home on Monday December 28, 2020. He was surrounded by his wife and children. He was born in Bayshore, Long Island, NY on September 6, 1947.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years of marriage, Barbara, and she was the light of his world. He leaves behind five children, Barbara J. Arndt, John Balken, Jr. and his wife Angela, Joe Balken and his wife Cathy, Chrystal Anthony and her husband Eli, and Jessica Kimzey and her husband Adam; his grandchildren, Sommer Childress, Kaleigh Balken, Lexi Cunningham and husband Paul, Aiden Balken, Brendan Balken, Maci Anthony, Mya Anthony, Luke Bonnett, Logan Bonnett, Roger Arndt and Serenity Balken; three great-grandchildren, Ryder, Arleigh, and Lyric; and one sister, Jeanette Darby.

He was a great strong man and lived life big. John was never afraid of failure. He taught all his kids that they can do anything, to love everyone, and to treat everyone with respect. He will be forever missed.

John was laid to rest in a private service at Forest Lawn Memorial Park.