Olga G. Balch

Olga was born on November 27, 1930, in Toledo, Ohio. Shortly afterwards her family moved to the Chicago area where she and her sister spent their childhood. College years at Northwestern University brought her to Evanston. Through mutual friends, Olga met John Balch and they married in 1952. Olga and John made Evanston their home where they raised their three children. Their children, five grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren loved to get together at the family home for holidays and family celebrations. Most recently they came together to celebrate Olga’s 94th birthday and John and Olga’s 72nd wedding anniversary.

Olga was an active member of her community, channeling her interest in gardening and art through her long-time involvement with the Garden Club of Evanston and her work at the Art Institute of Chicago. She found her true passion at the Art Institute where she and two other women launched the Volunteer Programs at the museum. She was a regular at the Art Institute, volunteering a couple of days a week for over 40 years.

Olga will be remembered for her gracious and welcoming personality, her generous time volunteering in the community and her timeless sense of style.

A private family gathering is planned in her memory.

Memorial donations may be directed to the Art Institute of Chicago – https://www.artic.edu/support-us/ways-to-give/annual-fund, or to the Geneva Foundation (Presbyterian Homes / Westminster Place) – https://www.presbyterianhomes.org/geneva-foundation/.