RoseMarie Balch, affectionately known to family and friends as “Rhea,” passed away peacefully at her home in Fraser on August 8, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She was 69 years old. RoseMarie faced a courageous journey with complications of multiple sclerosis with grace, strength, and dignity.
A longtime resident of Fraser, RoseMarie was known for her warmth, kindness, and dedication to her loved ones. Despite the challenges of her illness, her spirit remained bright, and her home was always a place of comfort and love for those who knew her.
RoseMarie was born on November 27, 1956, in Detroit, Michigan, to Richard and Rosemarie Scarlavai. She was raised in Detroit and graduated from Bishop Gallagher High School in Harper Woods. She initially worked as a hygienist for her own dentist before beginning a career as a paralegal, a profession she would work in for most of her career.
While RoseMarie was proud of her career, her most important and cherished role was that of a wife, mother, and nana. She married the love of her life, Michael Balch, at Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church, next door to Bishop Gallagher, on July 22, 1977. Together, they built a loving home, raised their children, and shared nearly 50 years of marriage.
RoseMarie was a devoted and supportive wife, a deeply involved mother, and a proud nana who treasured every moment with her family. She was affectionately a true hockey mom and hockey nana, always cheering on those she loved. In her younger years, RoseMarie enjoyed karate, playing tennis, and bowling with her husband. She was a longtime member of St. Margaret of Scotland Church and volunteered with the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, giving her time in support of others.
RoseMarie will be lovingly remembered by her husband, Michael Balch; her children, Aaron (Shaunna) Balch, Stephanie (Nathan) Metcalf, and Kyle (Jenni) Balch; and her grandchildren, Dante Balch, Xander Balch, Rosaria Balch, and Rhylie Metcalf. She is also survived by her siblings, Mike (Anna) Scarlavai and Rick (Maureen) Scarlavai. She was preceded in death by her brother, Jim Scarlavai, and her parents, Richard and Rosemarie Scarlavai.
Visitation will be held from 1:00 PM until 8:00 PM on Friday, August 14, 2026, at Resurrection Funeral Home, 40800 Hayes Road, Clinton Township, MI 48038. A funeral service will be held at the same location at 10:00 AM on Saturday, August 15, 2026.
Those wishing to make contributions in memory of RoseMarie may do so to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, 29777 Telegraph Rd #1651, Southfield, MI 48034. A link to donate online is included below.
