Lois Jean Balkan

It is with heavy hearts and deep love that we announce the passing of Lois Jean Balkan, who passed away on Monday, October 26, 2026, at 5:27 a.m. at The Vineyards Residence in Kelowna, British Columbia, at the age of 80.

Lois was a woman who truly loved life. Warm, loving, adventurous, and endlessly positive, she had a wonderful way of finding joy in the everyday. She loved people and animals, and she seemed to have a giggle for just about everything. Rarely in a bad mood, Lois approached life with optimism and a lightness of spirit that made being around her a pleasure. Even when a golf shot went astray, she would simply giggle. That was Lois — always finding the fun and never taking life too seriously.

Lois shared an extraordinary bond with her beloved husband, Jim Balkan. The two were inseparable, in life and love as well as in business, working side by side running businesses together. They travelled the world golfing, spent their winters in Palm Springs, and enjoyed golfing together almost every day.

Their summers in Kelowna were just as special. Mornings often began on the golf course, followed by afternoons heading out on their boat for happy hour on the lake. The fun frequently continued until the wee hours of the night, with their boat serving as a favourite gathering place for entertaining friends and family. Filled with laughter, good company, and wonderful memories, these evenings reflected everything Lois and Jim loved about life — friendship, togetherness, and having a good time.

Lois embraced every opportunity life offered. She loved travelling, boating, golfing, dancing, rollerblading, working out with her trainer, shopping, and, above all, spending time with family. She cherished the beauty of Kelowna, especially the sight of lights reflecting across the lake at night. She was always ready for an adventure and had a wonderful ability to make ordinary moments special.

Lois was also a wonderful cook, and her sour cabbage rolls were legendary. At Christmas in Palm Springs, she would even sneak sour cabbage across the border so the family could enjoy this treasured tradition. It was a perfectly Lois thing to do — a little mischievous, full of love, and all about bringing family together.

Jim had a special nickname for Lois: “Scrubby.” No one quite knows where it originated, but Lois loved it because it was hers, given to her by the man she loved. It was a small, endearing reminder of the unique bond they shared.

In her final years, Lois faced Alzheimer’s disease with remarkable determination. She fought hard and gave it a run for its money. Although the disease brought many challenges, it could never erase the love she gave, the joy she brought to others, or the memories made throughout her beautiful life.

Lois leaves behind her devoted husband, Jim Balkan; her stepdaughter, Shannon Letourneau (Rod); her beloved grandchildren, Jesse Letourneau (Kenzie), Jake Letourneau (Ella), and Amanda Letourneau; and her precious great-granddaughter, Charlotte Letourneau, daughter of Jesse and Kenzie. She will also be lovingly remembered by her numerous cousins throughout British Columbia and Saskatchewan.

A very special thank you goes to Lynn Bogert, who spent countless hours dancing, singing, sitting with Lois, and bringing light, love, and companionship into her final years. The kindness and time she gave Lois brought precious moments of joy and comfort that will always be appreciated.

Lois leaves behind a lifetime of adventures, a family filled with cherished memories, and a love that will continue long after her passing. We will remember her laughter, her mischievous spirit, her unwavering positivity, and the way she could always find something to giggle about.

She embraced life, loved deeply, and made the most of every moment. The lake lights will continue to shimmer, the golf courses will hold their challenges, and the music will invite us to dance. In all these places, and in the countless memories she leaves behind, a little piece of Lois will always be with us.

Forever loved. Forever missed. And never, ever forgotten.

Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.firstmemorialfuneralkelowna.com

Arrangements entrusted with First Memorial Funeral Services (Dignity Memorial) Kelowna, BC 250-762-2299