George D Balsama

Dr. George D. Balsama, 82, passed away peacefully at Trustbridge Hospice in Boca Raton on the evening of Tuesday, November 18, 2025 with his devoted wife, Valerie Gaus Kanouse Balsama by his side. He is also survived by three stepchildren, Keith J. Kanouse, Esq. of Orlando; Kyle W. Kanouse (wife Rea and their three children Aiyana, Amia, and Aila, affectionately referred to as the Triple A’s); and Kimberly Kanouse Malik (husband Mike and children, Kaia Margaux and Kaden Maverick).

George was born February 15, 1945 in Belmont MA, son of Lucy and John Balsama. He treasured his older brother, Joey, who helped raise him since their father worked long hours as a chef. Joey was idolized in the community of Swampscott MA, for the wonderful science teacher he was to generations of high school students, as well as serving as the local TV weatherman.

George graduated summa cum laude from Boston University, Phi Beta Kappa, and received his PhD from Brown University as a Rhodes scholar. While studying in France after completing Army training, he was recruited for assignment with the CIA because he was fluent in multiple languages and was a man of great virtue and intelligence. His wife loved to say, “he was not only a good man, but a gentleman and a scholar.”

After years of success in the academic world as a full professor in several universities and president of a college, he moved to South Florida to establish Southcoast Psychotherapy and Education Associates. As a compilation of therapists, counselors, and psychologists, it later grew to include full services in psychiatric counseling and treatment. His close friend and colleague, Dr. Alex Scheuermann, has taken over the practice and will present the eulogy at the celebration of George’s life to be held Sunday, November 23, 2025, at Babione-Kraeer Funeral Home, 1100 North Federal Highway, Boca Raton FL. Visitation is at 4:00 PM followed by a reception.

A funeral Mass will be held at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, 370 SW 3rd Street, Boca Raton, on Monday, November 24, 2025 at 11:00 AM.

His wife wishes to thank all those who offered so many prayers during the period of his sickness. She truly believes that played a big part in his peaceful passing.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Disciples of Mercy Foundation, PO Box 4074, Deerfield Beach FL 33442.