Charlene Balfanz, 75, of Inez was called home by the Lord on Saturday, January 11, 2025 after a courageous battle with leukemia. She was born in Victoria on April 4, 1949 to the late Charlie and Hattie (Singer) Balfanz.
Charlene attended William A. Wood from first through eighth grade and graduated from Victoria High School in 1967. She was a faithful member of First English Lutheran Church volunteering as a Sunday School Teacher. She also volunteered many years as an Inez Girl Scout Leader. In 1971 she began working at Victoria Electric Cooperative as a billing clerk and dedicated 43 years of service before retiring in 2014.
“Aunt Cha,” as she was affectionately known by her family, was a loving sister and aunt who enjoyed life to the fullest. In her younger years and before her eyesight deteriorated she enjoyed skiing, camping, traveling, and attending concerts with Elvis being the most memorable. She also enjoyed reading, playing games, crocheting, scrapbooking, baking, ranching and caring for animals. After retirement, she spent time documenting family history and enjoyed trips to the casino. Her greatest joy, however, was her nieces and nephews.
Charlene is survived by her sisters Linda Buzek (late husband Billy), Karen May (Rodney), Janette White (Larry); nieces and nephews, Shelly (Billstein) Riddle and Jesse, Michelle (Billstein) Taylor and Zachary, Stephanie (White) Sulak and Jason, Christopher Buzek and Samantha, Briana (Billstein) Jones and Matthew, James White and Terra; and numerous loving relatives and friends.
Services will be held at First English Lutheran Church on Friday, January 17, 2025. Visitation will be from 9-11am, and the Service will begin at 11am with Pastor Chip Reynolds officiating. Interment will follow in Memory Gardens Cemetery.
Pallbearers include Christopher Buzek, James White, Jesse Riddle, Zachary Taylor, Jason Sulak and Matthew Jones.
Memorial contributions in Charlene’s memory may be made to First English Lutheran Church, 516 N. Main, Victoria, TX 77901.
The family is especially thankful for all of those who shared their love, kindness, and care for Charlene and her family.
Words of comfort may be shared with the family at rosewoodfuneralchapel.com.
