Darrel Jean Balderston

August 17, 1940 – September 13, 2026

Darrel Balderston was born in Auburn, California, to his loving parents, George and Grace Balderston. He grew up as one of 15 siblings, surrounded by family and the many experiences that helped shape the man he would become.

Darrel was a loving husband to Suzanne Kay Balderston, who preceded him in death in December 2017. Their life together was an important part of Darrel’s journey and the family they built together.

Darrel was a loving father to his children: Tony Balderston; Alan Balderston and his wife, Tina Wrzesinski; Annette Miller and her Husband, Russ Miller; Terri McBane and her husband, Steve McBane; and Shannon Langford and his wife, Debbie Langford. He was also preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Brooke Batterbury.

Darrel was a proud grandfather to 14 grandchildren and a cherished great-grandfather to 11 great-grandchildren. His family was one of the greatest joys of his life, and his love will continue through the generations he leaves behind.

Darrel is survived by his siblings, Vernon, Lee, Phyllis, Joann, Ronald, Gary, Lynn, and Carl. He will be deeply missed by his brothers and sisters and by the many family members and loved ones who shared his life.

Darrel proudly served in the United States Army and was a member of the Sprinkler Fitters Union, where he spent many years as a hardworking and dedicated man. He was known for being tough as nails, strong, determined, and never one to give up easily.

He had a deep love for the outdoors, especially fishing and hunting, and enjoyed spending time as a camp host. He was also a proud member of the Placerville Moose Lodge. Darrel loved the simple pleasures of life, including playing Bingo and Thirty-One, telling stories, sharing laughs, and spending time with the people around him.

Giving back to others was simply part of who Darrel was. He volunteered at the Pollock Pines Community Center. During the holidays, he would deliver food baskets to families in need, making sure they had food on their tables and knew that someone cared. He was always looking for a way to lend a hand, and helping others was something that came naturally to him.

Those who knew Darrel will remember him for his incredible sense of humor, his ability to tell a great story, and his hardworking nature. He was hilarious and had a way of turning ordinary moments into stories and memories that people would laugh about for years. He was strong-willed, tough, and sometimes stubborn, but beneath that toughness was an incredibly generous heart.

Darrel always wanted to help someone. Whether it was a friend, a neighbor, a family member, or someone he barely knew, he was the kind of person who would show up, lend a hand, and do whatever he could. He gave his time, his strength, and his heart to the people and community around him.

Darrel leaves behind a lifetime of stories, laughter, friendships, and memories that will be treasured forever. His absence will be deeply felt by his family, friends, and the many people whose lives he touched.

Though he is no longer with us, his stories will continue to be told, his jokes will continue to make us laugh, and the kindness he showed others will continue through the people he helped and the family he loved so dearly.

A memorial service honoring Darrel’s life will be held on November 7, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at the Placerville Moose Lodge, 4310 Eight Mile Road, Camino, CA 95709. Friends and family are invited to gather together to remember Darrel, share stories, and celebrate the life of a truly one-of-a-kind man.