Robert Franklin Ballance

On August 29, 2025, at the age of 88, Robert (Bob) Franklin Ballance completed a long and well-lived life. He was born on February 25, 1937, near Glaslyn, Saskatchewan, to Jack and Dorcas Ballance and grew up alongside his siblings—Leone (Denton), Bill, Dorothy (Nelson), Pat, and Stan. His early years were filled with family, hard work, and love.

For more than 35 years, Bob proudly served as a full-time firefighter with the North Battleford Fire Department, protecting his community with courage and dedication. He always had an open door for friends and extended family, and his kindness and generosity made everyone feel at home around the kitchen table. A man of unwavering honesty, he loved his country and lived by the strong values that guided him throughout his life.

Together with his beloved wife, Connie (Sankey), Bob shared over 62 years building a home filled with love, laughter, and resilience. He was a steady, devoted father to Pam (Kevin) Shoults and Shawn (Shannon). Nothing brought him greater happiness than time with his grandchildren, Bron and Alexa. After the passing of his niece, Kim Sayers, Bob lovingly cared for his nephew, Chad (Dallas), and was a favorite uncle to Chad’s children, Steele and Kim. Visits from his furry friend Shae, always lit up his face and brought him immeasurable joy.

Bob was an avid sports fan, and his days were always better when it was game day for his Saskatchewan Roughriders, Edmonton Oilers, Toronto Blue Jays, or when he could watch a good curling game.

In June 2024, Bob and Connie moved to Saskatoon, where he spent his final year at Hunter Village, a place he quickly grew to love. The staff and community embraced them with kindness and care, and Bob was rarely seen without a smile on his face or his trademark wave of “Hi!” as he settled into this welcoming new chapter of life.

Bob will be remembered for his quiet strength, generous spirit, and unwavering love for his family. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched and the beautiful memories he leaves behind.

As he wished, no service will be held. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Saskatchewan Burn Fund, a cause close to his heart.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the exceptional healthcare teams at Royal University Hospital and Saskatoon City Hospital for their compassion, tenderness, and support. Their kindness will never be forgotten.

To all who knew him, Bob may have been small in stature, but he was immeasurably big in heart and character, making the world a brighter place simply by being in it.