Robert J. Balfour

Funeral services for Robert A. Balfour, age 84 of Ogdensburg and formerly of Heuvelton will be held 11:00am on Wednesday (May 11, 2016) at the United Methodist Church in Heuvelton with Pastor Jenni Piatt officiating. Interment will follow services at Foxwood Memorial Park.

Calling hours will be held on Tuesday from 4:00-8:00pm at the Fox & Murray Funeral Home. Mr. Balfour passed away early Saturday (May 7, 2016) at the Riverledge Healthcare Facility with his wife by his side.

Surviving is his wife Mary; two sons Scot (Gretchen) Balfour of Boyds, MD and Dr. David Balfour of Danville, VA; a daughter Megan (Eric) Kiszkiel of Stone Ridge, NY; grandchildren Madeleine Balfour, Claudia Balfour, Chase Kiszkiel and Grace Kiszkiel; a sister Louise Bergevin of Watertown; a brother-in-law Robert (Jackie) McMinn; a sister-in-law Inga McMinn; along with one niece and two nephews. His infant son Alan Balfour died at birth.

Robert was born November 2, 1931 in Watertown NY, to the late Ralph & Caroline (Lewis) Balfour. He graduated from Watertown High School and continued his education at Oswego State University College where he received a Bachelor of Science degree in 1954 and later a Master of Education degree in administration and supervision from St. Lawrence University in 1958.

On August 3, 1963 he married Mary Elizabeth McMinn in Penn Yan, NY. Robert began his career as a teacher in Watertown at South Junior High School and Boon Street Schools. He also taught English for beginners and drivers education for adults. He later became employed as director of elementary education at Heuvelton Central School from 1966 – 1991. While in that position, he was an avid instructor of audio visual equipment and computers. He also wrote several state and federal grants which benefited Heuvelton Central School with funds for programs and instruction. After his retirement from HCS, he served as a student teacher supervisor for Potsdam State University and as an advisor for Hammond Central School.

“Bob” was a “jack of all trades”, from teacher to car mechanic, historian to repairman who could fix almost anything. He was a 45year member of the Watertown Masonic Lodge and a former trustee of the Heuvelton United Methodist Church. He also served on the United Helpers Board for a period. "Bob" enjoyed teaching others computer skills and spending time with his family.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Heuvelton United Methodist Church or the Heuvelton Volunteer Fire Department. Condolences can also be shared online at www.foxandmurrayfuneralhome.com.