Doctor Danny L. Balfour

Danny L. Balfour, age 67, passed away peacefully at home Wednesday, March 22, 2023. He was preceded in death by his parents Wendell Herbert Balfour and Margaret Ann Nickel. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 36 years, Mayumi Balfour; children Patricia Balfour, Trevor Balfour; sister, Laura Flowers-Hess; many cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends. Danny graduated with a B.A. from Michigan State University and then earned a Ph.D. at Florida State University. A professor at Grand Valley State University for over 25 years, he was a longtime director of its School of Public, Non-Profit, and Health Administration, author of several renowned books, and editor of important journals in his field. Outside of his academic life, Danny was an avid golfer and tennis player, a lover of sharing good food and drink with friends and family. He supported the arts and enjoyed good music, with a special place in his heart for the work of Frank Zappa. Visitation for Danny’s family and friends will be held from 1-4 p.m. Sunday, March 26, 2023 at Cook Memorial Chapel (East building), 4235 Prairie St. SW, Grandville, MI 49418. Celebration of Danny’s Life will be held at 3:30-7 p.m. Saturday, April 15, 2023 at Grand Valley State University - University Club DEV 107C, 401 West Fulton Street, Grand Rapids, MI 49504. In honor of Danny and in lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to West Michigan Community Tennis (wmctennis.org/donate) and SowHope (SowHope.org). The family welcomes memories and messages in their guest book online at www.cookcaresgrandville.com.