Obituary for the late Billy Balaski  

September 12, 1934 – December 7, 2018

 

Billy is survived by his wife Grace Balaski (Oliver, BC). three stepchildren: Sandra Watson (Gordon), Red Deer AB, Kelly Melnyk (Jocelyn), Edmonton AB, Mark Melnyk (Gail) Fort Saskatchewan AB, along with seven step-grandchildren.

He is also survived by his siblings: Peter Balaski, Kamloops BC; Helen Crowder, Bend, Oregon; Donald (Rosa) Balaski, Brownsville, Texas as well as many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his first wife Kay Balaski, his parents Peter & Dora Balaski. His brothers Mike and Michael, and his sister Marion Titanich.

Bill or Billy which is actually his legal name was born and raised in the Wadena, Saskatchewan area.  A farm boy that learned to work hard grew up to be a hardworking man. He landed his dream job as a fireman with the Edmonton Fire Department. It was at this point that he married Kay. Despite loving his dream job as a fireman, they chose to devote their time to volunteering to share the good news from the Bible, first in Saint John, New Brunswick, then Yarmouth, NS before attending the Gilead School for missionaries.  After graduating, their assignment was to the Ivory Coast, Africa. They returned to Canada in mid to late 70s, continuing their service to others in East Angus, Quebec.

They returned to Saskatchewan to help with family health related concerns of a parent and his first wife, first to the Wadena area, then moving into Saskatoon.

After the passing of his first wife, Bill married Grace, they have spent the last 22 years together.  After living in Saskatoon, SK for a short while they moved to Osoyoos, BC then to Oliver, BC.  They were able to travel throughout North America together exploring and reconnecting with many old friends.  At the same time, they were able to enjoy their time connecting with and making many close friends in the local Congregations of Jehovah’s Witnesses in the South Okanagan.  Bill always continued to be very faithful in continuing to express his faith in the Bibles promises to all whom he met and spoke with.

A Memorial Service will be held at the Oliver Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses on Saturday December 15th, 2018 at 2:00 pm. All are welcome.

Condolences and tributes may be directed to the family by visiting www.nunes-pottinger