John "Jack" C. Balzer

John C. “Jack” Balzer, 82, of Rockton, Il. was welcomed into heaven on Monday, August 29, 2016, after a sudden illness. A life well celebrated, Jack humored his family with his practical jokes and spirited imagination, his creative surprises always kept the family laughing. Jack was born in Devils Lake, ND. on March 12, 1934, to Peter and Celia Balzer. Jack was a factory worker most of his life retiring from Woodward Governor. When living in Pasadena, CA. he worked as a gardener for the school district and maintained the grounds beautifully. He took on a part-time job manicuring estates in Hollywood. Together with his wife Pat of 52 years they embraced early retirement and enjoyed traveling. Jack liked to showcase his talents with many skills; woodworking, gardening cross-stitching. His workshop was meticulously organized. He had a sweet tooth for chocolate and anything with lots of frosting. Jack raised his family in a home filled with love.

He is lovingly survived by his wife, Pat; children, Greg (Sherry Trombello) Balzer, Kim (Scott) Fridly, Ken Balzer; grandchildren,Jennifer (Troy) Mangrum, Kaitlyn Balzer; great-grandson, Jason Mangrum; brother, Gerald Balzer; sister, Marlys Dowler. Predeceased by parents; son, Rodney Balzer; brother, Gene Balzer.

A celebration of his life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Fri. Sept. 2, at Sunset Funeral Home 8800 N. Alpine Rd. Machesney Park, IL. Visitation from 1:00 ~ 2:00. Burial will follow in Sunset Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to St. Jude’s Hospital, this was Jack’s dearest charity. Condolences may be expressed www.sunsetfhmemgardens.com