Mr. Balos was my favorite teacher, back at Lincoln High School in the late 1950's.   What a spirit !  He brought both thoughtfulness and joy to the classroom. He was my first connection to Greek culture, and he taught me how to count to 10 in Greek.  I so wish I had thought to look him up earlier, and thank him for the beautiful journeys and music that he inspired me to.  My warmest condolences to his family, who must miss him terribly.

Mr Balos was an amazing man.  My brother, Bruce, was in Manny's Jazz bands for years.  I know Bruce admired and cared for Manny.  I believe they owned an airplane together.  I like to think that he greeted Manny on the other side.  May it soothe Manny's family to know that he was an inspiring man.

Nikki Rawnsley Quinn
Seattle WA

Mr. Balos was an amazing teacher.  I actually looked forward to his class and actually sat and listened.  My heart goes out to his family.  He was an e exceptional teacher and an even better human being.

One of the best teachers in the world. Rest in Peace Mr. Balos!

Mr. Balos was a fantastic teacher !!!  I was lucky enough to have him as a History teacher at Lincoln High School.

Mr. Balos always said that he wanted to be remembered as:                          "A COSMOPOLITAN-TYPE OF A GUY" !!!!   I always remembered that.

So here it is, Mr. Balos.  I will always remember you as a "Cosmopolitan-type of a Guy" as well as a great educator.

Mr. Balos will always be fondly remembered.

Diane (Missovich) Guglielmetti, Class of 1974, LHS

59 years ago Mr. Balos was my History teacher at Lincoln High School. I think every student looked forward to going to his class each day, I know I did.  Mr, Balos always had time for his students and was always willing to give a helping hand when needed.  His passion for teaching and music will always be remembered.  With deepest sympathy and caring thoughts as you honor a treasured life.

Mr. Balos was one of my favorite teachers. He was such a nice man.  Though I have been out of high school for 39 years I have thought of Mr. Balos often.  My sympathies to his family.

I fondly remember Mr. Balos after all these years.  He made history fun for me. I remember one anecdote he told us called "Halo Statue".  It's been nearly 40 years and I have told that one several times and people have laughed like I did when Mr. Balos told it.  I am sure Mr. Balos is making God laugh.  I even had fun when he tired to teach me in a Saturday tennis class.  You will be missed.

I was shocked to see this, my prayers and loving thoughts to the family, and many years of wonderful memories of "Mr. Balos"..... on the tennis court, happy times at various birthdays and holidays at their home in Troy,  watching Mike's magical fingers gliding effortlessly over the glistening white piano keys with a wink at the end of his pieces,  David's never-ending dimples, beautiful Diane always supporting him at the club at mixers, multiple, multiple tennis mixers, outings, and I loved watching Mr. Balos in the park at various jazz concerts in Michigan in his element. My prayers to you all, he was awesome, always shared a wonderful smile. We (my family) are all blessed to have him and your family during the precious teen years of our life.XO linda burchett

Dear Sir,
Thank you for being the proof that God does send angels among us. I don't know what I would have done without you. Thanks for letting me bend your ears when I didn't know where to turn. May you be forever making God smile serving up your "appla-pie-and coffee" and jamming on the sax.
P.S. I think a sequel to the movie "To Sir, With Love" could easily be made about you
With Love,
Linda Nordick-Jamroz
Class of 1981

My deepest sympathies to the Balos family. MR. Balos was one of my teachers at LHS. I loved his class. He made learming fun. Mrs. Balos you also taught my 3 children at Yacks Elementary. I know he will be greatly missed. R.I.P.  Manny

Prayers to the Balos family, Mr. Balos was one of the best and passionate teachers at Lincoln, God bless you! Class of 83

Fond memories of Mr. Balos standing in front of the band with his baton raised at Lincoln High School.  I was honored to play clarinet and saxophone for him, march in the parades, listen to his comments about Nairobe...He was a fun teacher.  I even remember musical pieces we played, and of course, the favorite Lincoln Hi marching football game hurrah...

We were truly blessed to have known Mr. Balos.  He was a wonderful person with a dynamic personality.  We had him as a teacher at Lincoln High School the same year our Dad passed away.  To us, he became more than our teacher.  He became our friend.  We will cherish every memory we have of him.  He will always hold a special place in our hearts.  Love and hugs to Mrs. Balos ~ The Frankowiak Twins

Dearest Mrs Balos and family it's difficult to express what Mr Balos meant to so many of us. He was a fine man and an extremely warm and caring educator. My favorite memory of him was Life in America 1977...a game of name that tune! I got George Gershwin Raphsody in Blue  in 4 notes! I thought he would hit the ceiling he was so excited! Earned my A that day! My most sincere hope is that he knew how respected and loved he was by so many. I  pray for you all for peace during this time of loss. Know that an entire community grieves with you. Mrs Balos I'm so sorry, again my condolences and I am very happy I was able to see you briefly on Thursday. I'm glad I was able to tell you that you both influenced me musically and I will cherish my memories for all time. Much love,

I first met Manny in the 60's when we were both playing shows at the Top Hat Supper Club in Windsor.  Through the years I managed to see Manny about once a year, either on a job, or rehearsal, and he was always a special friend to me, as well as everyone that he knew. Manny was and excellent teacher and musician, and was a very gracious person.  I, as well as everyone he knew loved him.
He is leaving this planet a better place than he found it.  God Bless Manny.

Mr Balos was a great teacher at LHS enjoyed his many life stories was when he was a usher and the movie  theater that turned into a roller skating  rink

THE MOST MEMORABLE OF TEACHERS.  GREAT MAN. SADLY MISSED.  CONDOLENCES TO THE FAMILY. XOXOX

ANETTE WINKLER ROSATI

To the Balos Family, my deepest sympathy goes out to each and everyone one of you. I first met Manny at LHS when I had him as a teacher for one of the best classes I ever had. I learned so much from him in that class. Manny was my favorite teacher back then, but when he returned to rehearse his band there, we become close friends. I looked forward to seeing and listening to him and his band on Wednesday evenings. I also had the privilege of working with him for the two concerts he held there and doing his programs, flyers and tickets and preparing the Auditorium for him and whatever else he needed. He was a very generous and thoughtful man and especially a dear friend. I will miss him tremendously, as well as many others will. God Bless you Manny Balos and may you Rest in Peace. I for one and thankful for having to know him and knowing that he is up there among the angels still playing and singing Jazz, that was his passion. I am also thankful that he is watching over his family and all those that loved him. He was a great inspiration to all.

All my sympathy to the Balos family.  I taught with Manny for years at LHS. For a while we had rooms next to each other. I would look forward to the breaks between classes as Manny would exit his room singing or humming a tune.  He always had a new great joke to brighten the day as we guarded the middle stairway between classes. He was  one of a kind, a talented man who loved life.

On behalf of LHS Class of 80.....
Our deepest condolances to you Diane (Mrs. Balos) and all of your family. Words alone cannot express how much of an impact you both had on myself and so many others whom were fortunate to have been taught by you at LHS. Not only your teaching skills have rubbed off on us so well, but your human nature of love, kindness are grately appreciated and will forever be remembered.  God Bless You

Mr. Balos was THE most influential teacher I ever had. Thanks to him, I heard Coltrane and Miles Davis. Thanks to him, I knew who Fatty Arbuckle was, what made Jack Benny a genius and who was the original "It" girl. And thanks to Mr. Balos, I can tell my kids his "Halo Statue" and "Appla Pie and a Coffee" jokes and get a laugh.

Thank you Mr. Balos. I hope you know now how many students you influenced during your time teaching at Lincoln. You were one of a kind for sure!

Rest in peace, Manny! God's gonna love "Halo Statue" for sure!

Manny was a friend, golfing mostly at the A&G Central golf outing during the summer months.  He did so much for the band students at his schools during his tenure.  His influence is still felt to this day.

He was such a kind man. I will cherish my memories with him. He will be very missed. Manny certainly put his mark in this world. Much love to the family. Always, Jenn

Thank You Mr. Balos for being that unforgettable teacher in my life.  You will be missed, but you will never be forgotten.

So sorry to learn of the passing of Manny Balos. I transferred to LHS in the 11th grade and joined the concert band. He recruited me for the stage band. I had always liked swing music, but had never played it. I new almost nothing about jazz. That all quickly changed. Thru his teaching and story-telling, I came to love that music. To this day, I'm a big fan- not a talent. Later, I had the good fortune to be a student teacher at LHS and renew acquaintances with Manny. He was one of several faculty members who was a great help to me. I'll always be grateful for what I learned from him.

Today the Mallare family lost a dear friend in Manny Balos. For me he will always be my teacher, mentor, friend, and hero. Without a doubt he was the most influential person in my life who encouraged me to pursue a career in music and teaching. His wit, humor, and passion for music (especially big band) as well as his passion for helping others succeed was truly inspirational. Most times he volunteered his help before you even asked.
I called him Bix. A little joke between he and I that was taken from an American history class that Manny was teaching when I was in the 11th grade. Besides music Manny had a wealth of knowledge in history particularly that of the early 20th century pop culture such as silent films and early radio. With that knowledge he created and taught a high school course called " Life in America". He was the first teacher in this state to get stage band for credit and taught during the school day.  Whatever class  you had with Manny his students would always say that he was their favorite teacher. He was mine.
Since 1957 Manny conducted a rehearsal big band that met Every Wednesday at 7 pm. That continued till just last month. We all loved him and will miss him. Especially me. 
You taught me a lot Bix!

My thoughts go out to Manny's wife Diane, his sons David and Michael, and the rest of the Balos family.

Mr.Balos, what can I can I say that everyone else hasn't?  He was a great man whose memory will forever be etched in my heart. If the world had more Manny's in it, it would be a great world. My heart goes out to his family. God bless

So many great memories of Mr. Balos at LHS! His humor and music, and then later at alumni golf outings - he was well loved.  RW (class of 1974)

During one's lifetime, each of us has the good fortune to experience serendipity.  I had such a moment the day I met the Balos family.  Over the many, many years, this family, which I consider a second family to me, has provided countless laughs, great experiences and cherished memories.

Manny, you have provided for all. We, Lynne and I, will miss you dearly. Sleep well.

To the Balos Family, we unfortunately didn't get to meet Mr. Balos but heard many great things about him from David and Rose.  He sounds like he touched a many lives beyond just his families.  You are all in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time and we are sorry for your loss.  
Scott and Donna Stephens

What can I say about Mr. Balos?  I had him as my teacher in 10th grade and I'll never forget this never ending smile and enthusiasm to teach.  His was one class I always looked forward to going to.  I learned a lot and he always made it fun.  What a great guy!!  My thoughts and prayers

Manny gave the love of music to thousands!

One of the most amazing teachers Lincoln High School ever had and one of the teachers that influenced me the most. Thanks Mr. Balos...you were one of a kind and will be greatly missed.  My thoughts and prayers for his family.

My sympathies to the Balos family. As a new teacher at Lincoln I looked up to Mannny as a top teacher but also his warm interactions and ability to motivate his students and  fellow teachers.

Mr. Balos was a great teacher. My children, Mark & Charmaine, remember and talk about him and his class to this day. They learned a lot from him. My deepest sympathies to all of his family.

What can you say about Mr. Balos that I haven't seen being said already. I was fortunate enough to have both Mr. and Mrs. Balos as teachers at Lincoln. Mr. Balos was a wonderful, caring man, you could talk to him about anything. He made learning fun. I loved his stories and his zest for life, he was always happy. He was easily one of the best teachers I ever had. R.I.P. Mr. Balos and I truly hope you knew how many of us "kids" loved you. Prayers for his family and friends.

My sympathies to the Balos family.  Mr.Balos was my favorite teacher at Lincoln.  While I love history, he made it come alive with his jokes and stories. May he rest in peace knowing that he was a well loved teacher and human being. Class of 1965

My deepest sympathy to the family.  Mr Balos was a wonderful teacher. He made my years at Lincoln memorable.  Rest in peace.  class of 1970

Mr. Balos was a legendary educator.  He did it the right way, and his classroom enthusiasm and 'joie de vivre' was infectious.  He made learning an enjoyable and fun experience!

Godspeed in your continuing adventures into the next realm, Mr. Balos!



-Lincoln High Class of 1980

Dear Manny,
They say a picture paints a thousand words but after that is where you begin..
Your unconditional love and passion for life was a priceless gift. You will forever have a special place in our hearts. Mitch Albomb had Tuesdays with Morey but I had Wednesdays with Manny. Thank You my dearest friend for the many years of life and music lessons. Your finally leading and playing with the greatest musicians ever including my dad.

Mr. Balos had a great way of making me learn without me even realizing it.  He kept things so fun and entertaining.  Truly a gem to LHS and every student he taught.

To the Balos family, so sorry for your loss, sending hugs❤

Dear Diane and Family, Iam so sorry for your loss. Manny was a very special person. I can remember so many good times on Newport. Mau God bless you in your time of need. Joan Van Overbeke

Manny Balos, my dearest friend, golfer and a darn good guy. Many golf trips we went on with Manny and Dianne. Myrtle Beach, Etowah Valley and up to northern Michigan. Those were great times. My best friend is now golfing at the Greatest course of them all. Gods peace be with you.

Mr. Balos not only made us better musicians....he made us better people.
A great loss indeed.

Class of 1966...

Dearest Uncle Manny, 
As far as I am concerned, God took you away from us a little too soon.  Call me selfish, but it goes without saying, you are truly a one-of-a-kind man, a gem, a blessing to all you touched.  I am so proud to say that I am your niece.  I have the BEST memories of my life because you.  Thank you for exposing me to the joys of music, to golf, to humor, the value of family, and making me feel somehow special in this world, just like you made EVERYONE feel. You inspired ALL!  I miss you, as my heart just breaks.  I promise you that Aunt Dianne will be good hands.  God bless you, babe!  (if I had a nose of nickels, I'd sneeze them all at you") Until we meet again....xoxo!

A wonderful teacher that brought smiles to so many through the decades! He enjoyed his job and that shined through.

Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
It will be the little things that you will remember, the quiet moments, the smiles, the laughter.  And although it may seem hard right now, it will be the memories of these small things that help to push away the pain and bring the smiles back again.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your good memories bring you comfort.

Diane and family, your loss is shared with all the lives Manny has touched. I will always remember his class, passion, honesty, and most of all, his willingness to help everyone he met, young and old alike. He touched my life and he will always be in my thoughts.

From reading all these beautiful messages it's easy to see that the impact Manny had on so many people will be passed on forever. In my family he was a huge influence first on my husband who played in one of Manny's early jazz bands and more recently with our son who played in Manny's Jazz band as recently as a couple weeks ago. We will always remember his kindness, spirit, enthusiasm, and joy of life. Manny made everyone feel special - he truly was one in a million! My condolences to Dianne, Michael, David, and kids - Manny was loved by many.

I too had Mr. Balos for "Life in America".  It was the only class out of 4 years of high school that I think of and talk about.  Not only a wonderful and gifted teacher but a truly gifted man.  The world is a sadder place without men who care that much about other people's children.  Rest in Peace.

I still smile daily at the jokes you told in our classes.  Mostly I remember the punchlines . . .  Apple Pie & a coffee and Statues stand out!

Mr. Balos was the only teacher in my life who automatically knew what it took to teach me so I could learn like everyone else & succeed...He was the best, best teacher ever... God sent us an angel for a teacher, his name was Emanuel "Manny" Balos...Thank you God for letting Mr. Balos bless all of our lives...He was a true blessing...

Mr. Balos was my one and only favorite teacher.  Loved his corny jokes... Halo' stat you.

You were a kind, caring and gifted teacher who touched many lives. You will be missed. RIP Mr. Balos

So sorry for your loss. Mr Balos was a great teacher kept you interested. Was a great man in deed.

My deepest sympathies to the Balos family, may he rest in peace.
Kim (Vel)Judd

Manny was a great teacher and man. To celebrate his retirement Joe Malare, Manny, Joe's brother, and I had a great day of golf at Indian wood. Great day with friends and how I will remember him.

" Mr. Balos was the best government & music teacher.  He made learning
fun.  That man loved his music, especially jazz. He will forever hold a special place in my family's hearts.  All my siblings had him .  God be with him & his family.  He will be greatly missed by all
    
                                                    The Godin Family

To Diane and Family,  Please accept our condolences on the death of Manny - He will be greatly missed! We have many "Fond Memories" of "Fun Times" on Newport Street. Be assured of our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.       Sincerely,
    Jim & Mary Ellen Martinson

I am so sorry to hear of your loss.  I had Mr.Balos as a band instructor and later for History at Lincoln HS.  He was a caring and wonderful teacher. 
Sending my condolences to your entire family at this difficult time.
Kathy Darnell Warner (Pritchard) LHS Class of 1969

A good friend and always a laugh. Our thoughts and prayers are with Diane and the family.

To the Balos Family, so very sorry for your loss of a wonderful man.  Our hearts go out to you during this difficult time.  We are thinking about you all and our prayers are with you.

His "Life In America" class was the BEST!! Always talking about that pink suit that Robert Redford wore in The Great Gatsby. He sure brought sunshine to the halls of Lincoln High with his singing:) Tracie(Oswalt)Taylor

Mr. Balos was the coolest teacher I had. He really knew how to relate to the kids. He could get anyone's attention and keep it. He could really light up a room and kids looked forward to coming to his class.   He will be sorely missed. A smile and great memories when I think of him. Lincoln Senior High Class of 1982

Many laughs, many memories.....one of the greatest teachers ever!  Mr. Balos not only educated us he taught us to embrace history with music and humor.  He was one of a kind.  My deepest condolences to the Balos family!  I'm sure God welcomed him with "Halo Statue"!!!

I went into my government class thinking that this was the only class that I was going to fail. Mr. Balos talked to me about my fears and the way he taught the class with such enthusiasm and laughter got me through the class. He will be missed. I am proud to say I had him as a teacher. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family in this trying time.

Condolences to the Balos family. I had Mr. Balos for History WWII and then the best class ever Life in America!!!! He always recited Cyrano de Bergerac to me and gave me extra credit for reading the play!!!! Loved all of his jokes, especially apple a pie and coffee and Hello Statue!! R.I.P. Mr. Balos, hope to see ya again.

Mr. Balos was an excellent music teacher, and soooooo funny!!  Sue, Lincoln High Class of 1977.  RIP.

Prayers to the Balos Family.  I had Mr. Balos for "Life in America" and that was the BEST class ever!  He made learning fun and exciting!

-Debbie (Bork) Siecka
Lincoln High, Class of 1984

many people have changed a life, some do by wisdom, others by experience. The entire Brehm family that you taught in band, then the decendents of this also having the pleasure of being around one of the greatest people god blessed this earth. Thank you Mr Balos for the time you had to make many lives for the better...You will be missed dearly by all.

Mr. Balos was a wonderful gifted teacher. He was my favorite teacher. He's always had a place in my heart. My kids have heard about him numerous times. He was a kind,sweet,funny man. I can remember him telling us that Robert Redford was his favorite actor and if you brought in a picture of him you'd get extra credit. He was funny in the classroom and in the halls. I can still hear him joking with me in both both "Hey de niece (Denise) where's de nephew  at?"  He was a joy and I've always said if there were more teachers like him the students would really learn. He was full of energy and always made your day. He will be greatly missed by his students at Lincoln High. RIP Mr. Balos we were blessed to have a wonderful teacher like you. We will forever keep you in our hearts and memories. So many good memories

Wow so sorry to hear.  I loved being in Mr. Balos' class.  I remember him playing in the halls of Lincoln High. Rest in peace kind sole.
Kay McMillan daughter of Peter and Lorraine
Class of 78

One of my favorite teachers an amazing man I looked forward to going to class he made learning fun.

Mr. Balos was my favorite teacher. Never missed his class.

My deepest sympathy and condolences to Diane, David and Michael and their families.  Thank you for being such a good friend to my parents.  You always made me feel like a million dollars every time I saw you.  You were one of the best!

What a great teacher. Prayers to the Balos family.

Balos family,
    Please accept my deepest condolence during this difficult time. I hope your best memories keep you strong as you celebrate a great life of such a great man.  Mr. Balos was one of my favorite teachers.  Looking back, he knew how to connect and work with students to get his lesson plan instilled.  
     Rest in peace Mr. Balos knowing you served so many here on earth.  Thank you for being such an inspiration!

Looking at all the great memories that people have written in the guest book, only goes to show what a remarkable man you were! Full of happiness and a kind word for everyone you met. I too am saddened by your passing. Not too long ago we saw you at my dads funeral. It was wonderful to see you. "God don't make no junk" and he knew what he was doing when he created you! Thanks for sharing your life with us and may you rest in peace. "On chicka On "

To the Balos Family, my deepest sympathy and prayers. Mr. Balos will forever be a joyful memory of my high school days and beyond! He was always so full of energy, optimism and spunk! Who didn't love his "Living in America" class?! What an inspiring teacher and role model who introduced us to music and American culture! I also enjoyed seeing him at the annual LHS Golf Outing. Our world has lost a beautiful man, but the music is already playing in Heaven!  He will be missed dearly.

Dianne, David & Michael, Your call this morning Dianne was just one more personal connection that goes back 52 yrs. Our love for you all runs deep. A "thank you" just doesn't measure up to the words that can't adequately say what is in our heart. Our prayers & the love of so many too numerous to mention will see you through this nightmare. The Bob & Jo Ames Family

'One of a kind'  has left us. Manny taught students about history and more importantly about life. He was a good colleague and golfer;his positive nature will be missed.    Buck Harvey

He made our high school days wonderful. Our prayers go out to his family and friends.  God rest his soul.  Jean Davis (Matty)  Class of 1969

If you are a professional commercial musician and hung out in Detroit, you most likely played in the Manny Balos Rehearsal Band.  So many of us learned from this kind, knowledgeable and giving man.  Thank you for giving so much of yourself to others.  You really made a difference in people's lives.

Gordon Stump,  President Emeritus,  Detroit Federation of Musicians

Having "applea pie & a coffee" for breakfast in your honor! Praying for your family & friends who will feel your loss & Thankful that you were in my life for the time you were!

Our memories of a wonderful friend and neighbor will always remain in our hearts.  We always loved him.

John and Maureen

Simply one of the best...So many great memories. His jokes in class live on as I've seen commented by many. Praying for comfort for all who knew and loved him.

Never was there ever a more gifted teacher, musician, humanitarian, mentor, friend, or role-model for thousands of young/starving minds. Mr. Emanuel "Manny" Balos - thank you for your selfless generosity of spirit and love for each of us who crossed your threshold - we were the beneficiaries of untold wealth. God be with your family and friends...we were blessed to walk with you for even a moment.

Mr. Balos was the teacher I enjoyed the most.  I can still hear his voice at the front of the room.  I felt like I was watching a Seinfeld type comedian doing his stand up act based around history.  He was funny, intuitive, kind and connected with his students.  He was a great man and teacher.  He did his job well.  Even as a teenager I could tell he loved life, teaching and music.  I went to see him at the Top Hat Club in Canada several times.  We really enjoyed going to watch him play.  God bless you Mr. Balos.

Mr. Balos was not only one of the best teachers I have had he was an outstanding person. I'm sure many knew this and for me I know this personally because of the help, care and concern he showed me. I was amazed at his care for me outside of class. As a high school student I never expected a teacher to show the kind of care and concern he did. I will never forget the help and care he showed me in my time of need. I know I've said this years ago when I was his student but I'm going to say it again, Thank you Mr. Balos for everything. I will miss you

May God bless his family. His fantastic energy really left an impression. "On chicka on" and "applea pie n coffee" are lasting memories. 

With great respect,
Al Benacquisto '81 Lincoln High

The world has lost a great man!  Dedicated to his job, dedicated to his students, going the extra mile to make sure that learning was fun, and mentoring students along the way.  His love for music was always apparent!   His smile was ever present.   His "stories" have been retold outside of the halls of Lincoln High School for years!  He made a lasting impression on all those he taught.  He impacted the lives of his students.  He made life long friendships with fellow musicians teachers, and students.   His golf tips echo in my mind every time I hit the links.   Your memory will live on, Manny, in the hearts of your family, and those who were lucky enough to call you "friend".  

I am sure that God has handed you the baton, some awesome charts, and heaven's greatest swing band!  They await the downbeat!

Thanks for the memories, Manny B!

I was deeply saddened to hear of Mr. Balos's passing,not a lot more I can say about this great and wonderful teacher that hasn't already been stated by my fellow Lincoln High alumnus. I'm probably one of the few that claim being a third generation Balos student as he taught my great-aunt,my mother and myself,obviously at different times. Others have mentioned his classic jokes "Apple Pie And a Coffee", "Halo Statue",how he gave the students from my time frame (late-80's - early 90's) the "We Didn't Start The Fire" lyrics and wanted us to pinpoint the years being mentioned.He made learning so fun and enjoyable,a lost technique now I'm sure. My personal memory is how from time to time he'd pop a random trivia question to the class that no "high-schooler" should know and jokingly say that anyone who answered correctly would get an A for the day or semester or whatnot.Well,one day he got stunned when one student finally answered one of his questions. That student was me. He asked the class one day,"Who wrote the song "Smile"?"(for those that are unfamiliar with the title it goes" Smile,though your heart is aching
Yes,even though it's breaking").One voice,mine,spoke out "Charlie Chaplin",without even turning around Mr. Balos says "Willhite,I don't even want know.". A while later he was teaching a golf class at Macomb College and my father,also a former Balos student from LHS,was in the class and Mr. Balos asks him,"How does your kid know all that?". God Bless you Mr. Balos,for making learning so fun for so many South Warren kids for so many years. You will be missed.

            Don Willhite,Jr
            LHS Class of 1992

So sorry for your loss. My Balos was my favorite teacher in high school His class was always fun to go to.

To the Balos family, hello my name is Dawn Ruppert-Pickrahn, Class of 75'; Mr. Balos was the most interesting person I had ever met.  He was always smiling, humming or singing.  It was easy to see that music flowed throughout his total being and oh how he taught us students.  It is very easy to remember someone like him.  He definitely made an impression on me and he was the one teacher I talked about to family and friends.  The stories he would tell and I remembered how he spoke about Elizabeth Taylor and her violet eyes.  I could go on and on, however, my deepest sympathies to you his family.  Although it is hard to lose a loved one, rest in knowing how much he gave of himself to all the students at Lincoln High and we all are privileged to carry on with a piece of a GREAT mentor. Prayers and peace be with you!

OBITUARY

Emanuel C Balos

22 December, 1929 – 21 September, 2015

Kaul Funeral Home

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